Research Associate

R&D Associate

Job Description

We are seeking a detail-oriented and innovative R&D Associate to support the development and commercialization of new food products. This role will assist in all phases of product development-from concept and bench-top formulation to pilot testing and scale-up-ensuring alignment with marketing goals, regulatory standards, and manufacturing capabilities.

Responsibilities

• Assist in the formulation and testing of new food products and line extensions.
• Prepare lab-scale and pilot-scale samples for internal and external evaluations.
• Document formulations, test results, and process parameters accurately.
• Work closely with marketing, quality, and operations teams to align product attributes with consumer expectations and production feasibility.
• Participate in sensory evaluations and consumer testing panels.
• Support the transition of products from lab to production scale, including pilot plant trials and first production runs.
• Assist in troubleshooting formulation or process issues during scale-up.
• Maintain accurate records of experiments, formulations, and test results.
• Ensure compliance with food safety regulations and internal quality standards.

Essential Skills

• Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Food Technology, Chemistry, or a related field.
• 1-3 years of experience in a food manufacturing or product development environment (internships included).
• Familiarity with GMP, HACCP, and food safety standards.
• Strong organizational and documentation skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $65000.00 - $85000.00/yr.

Health & Wellness

Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance

Health Savings Account (HSA) and Flexible Spending Account (FSA) options

Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for mental health and personal support

Wellness incentives and virtual health resources

Financial Security

401(k) retirement plan with company match

Life and AD&D insurance (basic and voluntary)

Short-Term and Long-Term Disability coverage

Optional critical illness, accident, and hospital indemnity insurance

Work-Life Balance

Paid Time Off (PTO) including vacation, sick leave, and holidays

Paid parental leave

Flexible work arrangements (remote/hybrid options where applicable)

Volunteer time off and community engagement programs

Professional Growth

Tuition reimbursement and continuing education support

Access to online learning platforms and certifications

Career development programs and mentorship opportunities

Additional Perks

Employee discount programs through partners like Abenity

Commuter benefits and transportation subsidies

Legal and identity theft protection plans

Company-sponsored events and recognition programs

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Steeleville,IL.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Jul 17, 2025.

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 30,000 consultants and more than 4,500 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500.

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 due to a disability, please email ... for other accommodation options.