R&D Lab Technician

The R&D Lab Technician supports new product development by formulating, testing, and documenting beverage samples in Sunny Sky Products' innovation lab. This role is critical to bringing new products to market accurately and efficiently, working cross-functionally with R&D, Sales, and Operations teams. The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, scientifically curious, and thrives in a fast-paced, hands-on environment. Cleaning and Maintaining the Lab in Audit Ready Condition is also required.

Major Job Functions

• Work in Salesforce and complete sample requests and ship samples to customers as scheduled.
• Measure and mix ingredients to complete formulas according to sample request.
• Perform physical and chemical analyses including Brix, density, pH, viscosity, and other quality measurements as required.
• Maintain records, perform calibrations, and conduct routine maintenance of lab equipment as needed.
• Perform shelf-life evaluations and keep detailed records of retain samples.
• Organize, order, clean and stock lab supplies as needed.
• Manage lab warehouse and storage area to high standard.
• Ability to regularly lift and carry up to 20 lbs., including cases, buckets, and pails. (See Physical Requirements table below.)
• Practice good manufacturing practices, hygiene and food safety requirements.
• Participate in and occasionally run sensory evaluation panels and conduct organoleptic assessments of new and existing formulas.
• Accurately document formulas, batch records, and test results in the company's product lifecycle management (PLM) or R&D documentation systems.
• Collaborate with Sales, Marketing, and Production teams to support timely product development and commercialization.
• Handle, store, and dispose of lab ingredients and chemicals in accordance with safety protocols and regulatory requirements.
• Maintain lab to GMP requirements (Cleaning; refilling supplies, maintaining all working areas to GMP standards).

• AS/BS in Food Science & Technology or similar degree is preferred.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Outlook, Excel); experience with label design and printing software (e.g., BarTender or similar).
• Proficiency in SAP and Salesforce; experience with shipping and order management platforms preferred.
• Be extremely organized and able to multi-task on several projects at once.
• 1–3 years of experience in a food, beverage, or consumer products laboratory environment preferred; recent graduates with relevant internship experience will be considered.
• Knowledge of Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) and HACCP principles; food safety certification (e.g., PCQI, SQF, or equivalent) a plus.
• Strong attention to detail, excellent written and verbal communication skills, and ability to work independently and as part of a team.

• Location: Houston, TX (on-site)
• Reports To: R&D Manager
• FLSA Status: Non-Exempt
• Schedule: Full-time, Monday–Friday ; Day Shift