Seasonal R&D Lab Technician

POM Wonderful • Del Rey, CA

4d • Hybrid

About The Position

The R&D Department is seeking a detail-oriented seasonal employee to support R&D activities. This position assists with fruit sampling and evaluation, analytical testing, data collection, sensory evaluations, and research trials. The ideal candidate is dependable, organized, and able to work effectively in a fast-paced laboratory and packinghouse environment.

Requirements

• Previous laboratory, agricultural, quality control, or research experience preferred.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to accurately follow written and verbal instructions.
• Good communication, organizational, and time-management skills.
• Ability to prioritize tasks and work efficiently on multiple projects.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office, particularly Excel.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively as part of a team.
• Ability to stand and perform repetitive tasks for extended periods.
• Good manual dexterity and ability to lift and carry up to 50 lbs.
• Ability to work in laboratory, outdoor, warehouse, refrigerated, and commercial packinghouse environments.
• Flexibility to work hours based on harvest schedules and research needs.

Nice To Haves

• Coursework or a degree in Biology, Chemistry, Plant Science, Food Science, Agriculture, or a related field preferred but not required.

Responsibilities

• Learn and perform fruit sampling, grading, and maturity and quality assessments according to established procedures.
• Prepare, label, organize, and evaluate fruit samples for R&D trials.
• Perform analytical testing using laboratory equipment, including refractometers, pH meters, balances, and texture analyzers.
• Accurately collect, record, and enter experimental data and communicate results and observations to R&D staff.
• Follow study protocols and standard operating procedures (SOPs) to ensure accurate and consistent testing and data collection.
• Assist with the setup and execution of R&D trials and sensory evaluations.
• Maintain laboratory equipment, supplies, samples, and work areas in a clean and organized condition.
• Apply basic safety knowledge and follow safety procedures when working in commercial fruit packinghouse environments, including awareness of equipment, traffic flow, and food safety practices.
• Perform other duties as assigned to support R&D activities.

Benefits

• Access to top-notch medical coverage comprehensive vision and dental plans
• 401k with match eligibility
• 24/7 online physician consultations
• virtual mental health resources
• life coaching
• engaging employee community groups
• cash rewards for healthy habits and fitness reimbursements
• library of on-demand fitness videos
• Clear paths for career progression and internal mobility across our diverse family of brands and business units.
• Dedicated Learning and Organizational Development department, offering extensive resources like People Manager and leadership training, webinars, and eLearning courses.
• Company-wide mentorship program to share goals, overcome challenges, and drive your career forward.
• Continuous Improvement Training
• Wonderful Giving, allowing you to allocate company-provided funds to up to three charities of your choice
• Wonderful Neighbor to contribute to group service projects within our local communities.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Part-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed