Research And Development Technician (Chicago)

Amylu Foods is hiring a Research and Development Technician to join our team.This role would be during our first shift (6:00am – 3:00pm) and be located at our company headquarters at the following location:1400 W 44th StChicago, IL 60609Who are we?Amylu Foods is a Female founded, high-growth, natural CPG company with over a century of tradition rooted in using fresh ingredients and hand-crafted recipes.As the pioneers of chicken sausage, we blend innovation with experience, bringing bold, fresh flavors to the table.From our Chicago roots, we've grown into a passionate, dedicated team of food enthusiasts, leading the category with our creative recipes, small-batch production, and constant flavor innovation.Celebrating over 100 years of culinary craftsmanship, we're expanding our offerings and distribution nationwide, launching new and exciting products that continue to redefine the protein category.Primary ResponsibilitiesSample Processing and Trial SupportFollow the product specification instructions and batch sheets to produce product samples.Collaborate with others in the R&D Kitchen to ensure efficient production and product evaluation.Verify that all products are produced in strict adherence to company specifications and involve QA, Operations, and R&D in any deviations.Collaborate with Operations and QA to overcome obstacles and maintain smooth operations throughout the plant.Completes other duties as assigned.Sample Inventory Management and Shipment FulfillmentMaintain sample storage areas for R&D (R&D Kitchen, refrigerated storage in plant, frozen storage in plant)Retrieve samples of prototypes or stock SKUs as requested by managementCommunicate to management when stock SKU inventory is below safety stock level.Maintain inventory of cooler boxes and ice packs for shipment and communicate when more are neededPrint labels for product samples and cooler boxesFulfill the sample shipment requests that are provided by managementReporting & DocumentationDocument product data (dimensions, weights, etc.) as defined by Food Scientists or specificationsDocument all inventory transactions throughout the shift (raw materials, packaging, finished goods)Food & Workplace SafetyEnsure all production is completed in accordance with company GMPs, HACCP requirements, USDA regulations, and internal quality standards.Promote food safety by enforcing compliance with Good Manufacturing Practices and Good Hygiene Practices for all products handled.Maintain the R&D Kitchen in an organized manner.Required QualificationsHigh school diploma or equivalent.Ability to follow detailed product specifications, standard operating procedures, and documentation requirements.Strong attention to detail with the ability to verify packaging, labels, codes, weights, and quality test records.Ability to communicate effectively with Production, QA, R&D, Supervisors, and technical partners.Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to respond quickly to operational deviations and shift obstacles.Ability to work in a fast-paced manufacturing environment while maintaining high standards for safety, quality, and efficiency.Spend approximately 30-80% of time in the manufacturing plant in cold temperatures (40-50°F).Ability to stand for long periods (30-80%) of timeAbility to lift 50 lbs.Preferred QualificationsWorking knowledge of computers, specifically Microsoft Office products.Technical training or coursework in food science, manufacturing, or a related field preferred.Working knowledge of GMPs, HACCP, USDA regulations, food safety practices, and quality systems.Experience in food manufacturing, production support, R&D operations, or a related plant environment.Bilingual, English/Spanish preferred.Strong communication skills.Compensation$50,000 - $60,000Amylu Foods is proud to be an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran, or disability status.