R&D Technician

Johanna Foods is a state-of-the-art food manufacturer located in Flemington, New Jersey. Privately operated since 1995, Johanna Foods is now one of the country's largest producers and distributors of fruit juices, drinks and yogurt. Our products include the popular La Yogurt and Sabor Latino yogurt, Tree Ripe juices, Earth Wise juice beverages, Ssips and Sabor Latino drinks and nectars, and Ssips aseptic drink boxes, all using cutting-edge technologies and only the freshest, highest quality ingredients. Johanna Foods is also a leading private label and co-pack juice and yogurt producer, manufacturing products for numerous leading retailers and brands.

What we offer:

Competitive compensation (48,500 to $55,000) and benefits package, including medical, dental, vision, 401k, life insurance, short term disability insurance, long term disability insurance, vacation, and tuition reimbursement.

Job Summary
R&D Technician will assist in the development of new products and line extensions according to business needs. Performs product testing and documents the results, as directed by standard operating procedures. Serves as a technical expert to support product improvements, quality improvements, customer requests, cost savings initiatives, and assistance in the efficient utilization of the manufacturing facility. Provides accurate and timely communication and documentation regarding compliance and customer needs.

• Follow established design control procedures while supporting R&D.
• Generate specifications and manufacturing procedures.
• Perform testing by following written protocols.
• Develop sampling and test methods for verification of products and raw materials and conduct sensory evaluations.
• Identify and establish relationships with key suppliers for components.
• Ensure compliance with applicable quality system standards and food safety & security programs (SQF).
• Develop nutritional profiles / ingredient lines.
• Create & maintain product specifications.
• Maintain Product Formula Management System.
• Create & maintain product development records.
• Support Sales and Customer Service activities.
• Demonstrate proficiency in operating and maintaining laboratory instruments.
• Carry out shelf-life studies.
• Conduct competitive product evaluations.
• Possess ability to safely lift and move items weighing as much as 50 lbs. unassisted.
• Support Pilot Plant activities.
• Collect raw materials or finished products from production and storage areas.
• Perform microbiological sampling, selective media plating, and basic identification of microorganisms.
• Other duties as needed.

• Degree in Food Science/Technology or other related degree from an accredited four-year college or university.
• 3 -5 years of experience in the food industry in a lab environment.
• Detail-oriented and quick learner.
• Strong written and oral communication skills.
• Effective research and report-writing skills.
• Computer proficiency: MS Office and other related software. Experience using Genesis R&D is a plus.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Capacity to multi-task, balance priorities and be a self-starter.
• Demonstrate technical learning ability and troubleshooting skills.
• Familiarity with manufacturing and quality aspects of dairy and beverage industry.
• Experience with regulatory compliance requirements (FDA, food labeling, allergen, organic, etc.) is a plus.