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.