Project Coordinator I

Key Responsibilities

Sample Management & Documentation

• Manage the receiving and storage of samples in the Test Kitchen, including unpacking boxes and logging samples into the internal database.
• Manage photography of all first production samples.
• Manage verification of product preparation instructions.

Product Development & Sensory Program

• Lead the cooking, preparation, and presentation of samples for the Product Development and Sensory teams.
• Work with Product Developers to assist in product cuttings and First Production Evaluations, including setup and breakdown.

Test Kitchen Operations & Maintenance

• Adhere to all Test Kitchen policies and procedures.
• Manage and maintain the organization and cleanliness of the Test Kitchen.
• Assure accuracy and integrity of information by upholding client core values, quality, and brand standards.

Equipment & Inventory Management

• Manage Test Kitchen equipment, including scales, ovens, thermometers, and microwaves, ensuring they are calibrated regularly.
• Maintain an inventory of Test Kitchen supplies and assist in ordering replacements as needed.

Process Improvement & Technical Support

• Aid in continuous improvement through interdepartmental communication and project monitoring.
• Collect and route supporting technical information as necessary to support team administration.
• Perform other miscellaneous product development and administrative duties as necessary.

Requirements and Qualifications

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Associate's degree in Food Science, Culinary Arts, Nutrition, Quality Assurance, or a related field from an accredited university.
• 1-2 years of experience working in the consumer-packaged goods industry.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities simultaneously and deliver against rapid timelines.
• Must be detail-oriented and extremely organized, with the ability to anticipate team needs.
• Excellent communication skills and ability to excel in team settings.
• Computer proficiency and familiarity with Microsoft Office applications.
• Good typing skills and accuracy.

Working Environment

• Must adhere to company dress code and standards of production kitchen dress and PPE (personal protective equipment).
• Must follow all food safety and sanitation procedures as outlined.
• Standing and walking for extended periods of time.
• Regular use of the following motions: bending, twisting, squatting, climbing, reaching, lifting.
• Repetitive use of hands and arms.
• Exposure to FDA approved cleaning chemicals.
• Exposure to and work within varying temperatures and conditions (walk-in coolers and freezers, near ovens and smokers, etc.).
• Exposure to continuous background noise and occasional loud noises.
• Ability to work a flexible schedule including nights, weekends, and holidays as needed.
• Ability to use tools and equipment, including knives and box cutters.
• Unassisted lifting of up to 50 pounds.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in product development and/or quality assurance.
• Understanding of and experience in general food/manufacturing processing and laboratory techniques.
• A passion for food and strong culinary skills.