Research and Development Technologist

Job Summary:

SunOpta is seeking professionals interested in Fueling the Future of Food in our newest business, plant-based ingredients. SunOpta’s ingredient business was established to create value-added ingredients like plant-based proteins and fibers by “upcycling” materials that would otherwise find low or no value end uses.

This position is responsible for assisting R&D teams in a variety of development projects which can include new ingredients, new processes and consumer products. Responsibilities include ingredient development, plant scale-up and commercialization of new ingredients, shelf life and sensory testing, development of documentation throughout the product life cycle as well as general organization of the R&D lab space.

Essential Functions of the Job:

• Assist R&D team in preparing new ingredients and customer samples in pursuit of new business opportunities. Responsibilities include bench top make-up, plant trials and creating end-use applications.
• Assist with product scale-up testing and product start-ups in pilot plants and manufacturing facilities. Responsible for evaluating new ingredients, end to end during the product development cycle.
• Work with cross-functional team and suppliers to create and maintain new/existing raw material and finished good specifications.
• Participate in R&D and cross-functional team product evaluations to determine progress and next steps for new product development activities.
• Prepare product samples for customer evaluation, including invoice, labeling, packing, and shipping documentation.
• Plan and execute shelf-life testing for new and existing ingredients.
• Communication and partnership with vendors and suppliers for technical documentation and iterations for new ingredients as required.
• Maintain finished product master files to include formulas, specs, nutritional labels, and related documents.
• Maintain ingredient pantry and working inventory for R&D lab supplies.
• Leader for R&D lab organization and maintenance. Familiarity with 5S methodology a plus.
• Adhere to company GMP’s (good manufacturing practices), human and food safety procedures as well as all quality processes.
• Other duties, as assigned.

Supervisory Responsibilities:

• None.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelor's Degree in Food Science, Chemistry, Biology, or related field preferred.
• Experience as R&D Technician, QA Technician, Lab Technician, Food Production Technician or equivalent combination of education and experience (i.e., Student research or internships).

Preferred Qualifications:

• Food manufacturing environment exposure is preferred.
• A mechanical aptitude is a plus.

Knowledge and Skills:

• Intellectual curiosity, seeks to understand the “why and how” of chemical and physical transformation
• Mechanical inclination, bias for manufacturing know-how and unit operations preferred
• Strong attention to detail with documentation and codification of knowledge
• Outstanding verbal, written and presentation skills
• Experience with Microsoft Office

Additional Considerations:

• Travel Expectation: Up to 10%.
• Location: The preferred location for this role is at our Corporate Office in Eden Prairie, MN.
• Work Environment: Approximately 90% of this role is performed in an office / lab environment; 10% of work may involve being in a manufacturing environment.
• Physical Demands: Must be able to lift up to 50 lb. bags.
• Relocation or international remote working arrangements (outside of the US) will not be considered.

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time, with or without notice.

AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

EOE M/W/VET/DISABLED