R&d Lab Technician

R&D Lab TechnicianAbout the Role

We are seeking a highly motivated R&D Lab Technician to support the development of innovative food and beverage products from concept through commercialization. This hands-on role plays a critical part in preparing laboratory samples, assisting with product formulations, conducting testing and analyses, and supporting manufacturing trials. The ideal candidate is organized, detail-oriented, and passionate about food science, product development, and innovation.

This position offers an excellent opportunity for recent graduates or early-career professionals looking to build a long-term career in Food Science, Research & Development, Product Development, or Food Manufacturing.

Key Responsibilities

Product Development & Sample Preparation

• Assist in the development of new food and beverage products, concepts, and formulations.
• Prepare laboratory samples, beverages, concentrates, and extracts according to established formulas and procedures.
• Accurately weigh, measure, and blend ingredients to create prototype and test samples.
• Support Product Developers during research, testing, and scale-up activities.
• Contribute to product innovation initiatives that align with market trends and customer needs.

Testing & Quality Support

• Conduct ingredient, in-process, and finished product evaluations to support quality and product development activities.
• Collect, document, and organize trial data, shelf-life studies, and product testing results.
• Assist with sensory evaluations and product assessments.
• Maintain accurate records and laboratory documentation in accordance with company standards.

Sample & Inventory Management

• Fulfill sample requests for internal teams and customers in a timely and accurate manner.
• Track and coordinate sample shipments, ensuring proper labeling, documentation, and delivery.
• Maintain inventory of ingredients, packaging materials, laboratory supplies, and finished samples.
• Ensure materials are properly stored, identified, and readily available for projects and testing.

Laboratory Operations

• Operate, maintain, and clean laboratory equipment to ensure readiness and reliability.
• Support pilot and production trials by coordinating ingredients, materials, and documentation.
• Gather and organize ingredient and product information from suppliers and vendors.
• Maintain laboratory cleanliness and organization while adhering to GMP, food safety, and laboratory protocols.
• Promote a culture of continuous improvement, quality, and operational excellence.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Chemistry, Biology, Nutrition, Chemical Engineering, or a related scientific discipline.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to evaluate samples and interpret test results.
• Excellent quantitative skills, including accurate measurement, calculations, and data recording.
• Knowledge of quality systems, laboratory practices, and manufacturing environments.
• Experience or exposure to sensory evaluation methods for food and beverage products.
• Strong organization and time-management skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities.
• High attention to detail and commitment to accuracy in testing, documentation, and sample preparation.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and Word.
• Ability to work effectively in both laboratory and production environments.
• Ability to lift up to 20 pounds and perform hands-on laboratory work.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience working in a food manufacturing, beverage manufacturing, or GMP-regulated environment.
• Familiarity with sample management, inventory control, and product tracking systems.
• Experience with laboratory extraction processes, beverage formulation, or ingredient preparation.
• Understanding of food safety, GMPs, HACCP, and quality assurance practices.
• Strong communication and cross-functional collaboration skills.
• Experience following Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and technical documentation.
• Passion for food science, product innovation, and continuous learning.

Work Environment

This position is based in a laboratory and food manufacturing environment and involves working with ingredients, laboratory equipment, pilot-scale systems, and production processes. The role requires collaboration with cross-functional teams including Product Development, Quality, Operations, Sales, and Supply Chain. Candidates should be comfortable working in a fast-paced, hands-on setting while maintaining high standards for safety, quality, and organization.

Why Apply?

• Work on exciting new food and beverage innovations.
• Gain exposure to the full product development lifecycle.
• Collaborate with experienced R&D and Product Development professionals.
• Build valuable experience in food science, manufacturing, and commercialization.
• Opportunity for long-term career growth within a dynamic and innovative organization.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Vista, CA.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $23.00 - $26.00/hr.

Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: Medical, dental & vision Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital 401(k) Retirement Plan Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) Short and long-term disability Health Spending Account (HSA) Transportation benefits Employee Assistance Program Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Vista,CA.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Oct 20, 2026.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® winner for both client and talent service.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.