Research and Development Technician

At Red Diamond, we are driven by an obsession to provide a world-class coffee and tea experience. Since 1906, the cornerstone of our company has been our commitment to unparalleled quality, innovation and customer service. The company’s culture centers on quality, authenticity, and taking extra care from field to final sip, with no shortcuts or compromises.  We offer competitive compensation and benefits.  Join our legacy and become a part of the Red Diamond team!

Summary: The Research & Development Technician will assist in innovation efforts across the company to develop new products/flavors and enhance existing ones to meet company objectives.  The R&D Technician supports the R&D team by preparing product formulations, producing laboratory and customer samples, maintaining the R&D laboratory, and assisting with new product development initiatives where needed.  This role is responsible for maintaining accurate documentation and coordinating sample preparation, and shipments.  May interact with customers and external R&D teams and must be able to clearly present and articulate product ideas.  In-office position based in Moody, AL.

Essential job functions:

1. Prepare laboratory customer samples by accurately following approved formulations and written procedures.  Maintain detailed records of sample preparation and laboratory activities.
2. Assist with product development projects from development through production, as well as product improvements according to business needs.
3. Assist with multiple R&D projects simultaneously, ensuring accurate and timely completion of requests and projects.  Identify and test new products, flavors, processes, ingredients, and technologies.
4. Support manufacturing plant operations in process improvements and problem troubleshooting.
5. Manage the sample request process.  Develop and produce sample products for review.
6. Maintain documentation, clear and concise lab notebooks, and provide reports. Support specification development.
7. Manage shelf-life testing for new or existing products.
8. Prepare samples by roasting coffee in our sample roaster for customers or internal use.
9. Use sensory techniques to match competitive products.
10. Apply technical knowledge and establish credibility with highly technical audiences.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Required:

1. Knowledge of lab testing skills, methods, and equipment.
2. Basic understanding of flavors and functionality of flavors.
3. Basic understanding of ingredients and functionality of those ingredients in a finished product.
4. Basic nutritional knowledge and understanding of labeling etc. of food products.
5. Basic formulation skills.
6. Basic project management skills. 
7. Detail oriented and quick learner.
8. Ability to work cross functionally.
9. Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
10. Excellent math skills.
11. Proficient skill with personal computer and job-related software including Microsoft Office products.
12. Ability to successfully handle multiple tasks at one time and meet deadlines.
13. Ability to distinguish colors, aromas, and flavors for product evaluations.
14. Ability to work independently and with a team.
15. Knowledge and understanding of basic Food Safety and FDA and regulatory requirements.

 Education and Experience Required: Bachelor’s degree in Food Science, Culinary Science, Chemistry, Biology or related field and 1-3 years’ experience in R&D/Product Development, with beverage and coffee/tea experience preferred.