Lab Assistant - Taste & Sensory Innovation

Job Summary:
The Lab Assistant - Taste & Sensory Innovation supports the Taste Innovation team by contributing to new product development, product renovation, and quality improvement initiatives. This role assists with the preparation, testing, and evaluation of prototypes and their applications, as well as the creation and execution of product demonstrations in support of the Taste & Sensory business unit. Responsibilities include conducting basic analytical testing, preparing samples for advanced analysis, and maintaining detailed and accurate laboratory records. The ideal candidate is hands-on, detail-oriented, and eager to support innovation in a laboratory and kitchen environment.

Essential Job Responsibilities:

• Support new product development by assisting with benchtop preparation of prototypes and executing formulation adjustments under the guidance of scientists and project managers
   
• Assist with reformulation and quality improvement projects, including cost optimization and product stability initiatives
   
• Conduct basic analytical testing (e.g., particle size, pH, percent solids, and color measurements) to support technical decision-making
   
• Prepare and maintain product demonstrations, including logistics, setup, and inventory management
   
• Prepare dilutions, dosing materials, and other inputs for sensory and tasting experiments
   
• Operate a variety of laboratory and kitchen equipment, including homogenizers and related tools
   
• Prepare samples for detailed analytical measurements
   
• Maintain accurate, thorough, and timely documentation in laboratory notebooks
   
• Utilize Microsoft Office applications (Excel, Word, PowerPoint) for data entry, documentation, and reporting
   

Qualifications:

Desired

• Bachelor of Science degree from an accredited university
• Prior laboratory research experience in a science-based field (e.g., chemistry, biology, food science)
   
• Familiarity with basic laboratory equipment such as balances and pH meters
   
• Proficiency with Microsoft Excel, Word, and PowerPoint
   
• Experience maintaining records in a laboratory notebook
   

Working Conditions:

• Regular use of kitchen and laboratory equipment
   
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds