Seasonal R&D Lab Technician

The Wonderful Company•Del Rey, CA

5d•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

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.

Nice To Haves

Previous laboratory, agricultural, quality control, or research experience preferred.
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.