R&d Associate

R&D AssociateJob DescriptionWe 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.PAY - $25/hourResponsibilitiesAssist 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 SkillsBachelor’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.Additional Skills & QualificationsExperience with pilot plant equipment and sensory testing.Knowledge of nutritional labeling and regulatory compliance.Proficiency in Microsoft Office and formulation software.Work EnvironmentThe work environment includes a combination of lab, kitchen, and manufacturing settings. The role involves working with various equipment and technologies pertinent to food product development.Job Type & LocationThis is a Contract to Hire position based out of Steeleville, IL.Pay And BenefitsThe pay range for this position is $25.00 - $25.00/hr.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 Steeleville,IL. Application Deadline This position is anticipated to close on Mar 26, 2026.Diversity, Equity & InclusionAt Actalent, Diversity And Inclusion Are a Bridge Towards The Equity And Success Of Our People. DE&I Is Embedded Into Our Culture ThroughHiring diverse talentMaintaining an inclusive environment through persistent self-reflectionBuilding a culture of care, engagement, and recognition with clear outcomesEnsuring growth opportunities for our peopleActalent is an equal opportunity employer.About ActalentActalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services. For more than 40 years, we’ve helped visionary companies advance their goals. Headquartered in the United States, our teams span 150 offices across North America, EMEA, and APAC—with four delivery centers in India led by 1,000+ extraordinary employees who connect their passion with purpose every day.Our Bangalore, Hyderabad, Pune, and Chennai delivery centers are hubs of engineering expertise, with core capabilities in mechanical and electrical engineering, systems and software, and manufacturing engineering. Our teams deliver work across multiple industries including transportation, consumer and industrial products, and life sciences. We serve more than 4,500 clients, including many Fortune 500 brands. Learn more about how we can work together at actalentservices.com.