Research and Development Lab Technician

About Us:

At Cibo Vita, innovation drives everything we do. Based in Totowa, NJ, we craft premium healthy snacks under the Nature’s Garden brand, combining quality ingredients with creative flavor and function. Our products are designed to support wellness, sustainability, and better snacking choices-helping consumers “Snack With Purpose.”

Position Summary:

The Research and Development Lab Technician supports the Research and Development team by preparing product formulations, producing laboratory and customer samples, maintaining the R&D laboratory, and assisting with new product development initiatives. This role is responsible for executing laboratory activities, maintaining accurate documentation, coordinating sample preparation and shipments, and supporting pilot and production trials while ensuring compliance with food safety, quality, and Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs).

Responsibilities:

Sample Preparation & Formulation

• Prepare laboratory and customer samples by accurately following approved formulations, batch records, recipes, and written procedures.

• Weigh, measure, mix, package, and label ingredients and finished samples with a high degree of accuracy.

• Maintain detailed records of formulations, sample preparation, and laboratory activities in accordance with departmental procedures.

• Assist with preparing prototype products and reformulations for internal evaluations and customer requests.

Laboratory Operations:

• Receive, inspect, organize, and store ingredients, packaging materials, and incoming samples used for R&D projects.

• Manage laboratory inventory by monitoring ingredient and supply levels and coordinating replenishment with the R&D Manager or Lab Supervisor.

• Maintain a clean, organized, and audit-ready laboratory, including workstations, equipment, storage areas, and utensils.

• Perform routine cleaning, calibration checks (where applicable), and basic preventative maintenance of laboratory equipment, reporting any issues requiring repair.

Product Development Support:

• Support R&D Scientists and Product Developers with formulation development, product evaluations, and experimental testing.

• Prepare samples for customer submissions, sensory evaluations, shelf-life studies, analytical testing, and validation activities.

• Assist with pilot plant and commercial production trials by preparing materials, collecting samples, documenting observations, and communicating results to the R&D team.

• Provide first-level sensory evaluations of products, identifying basic differences in appearance, aroma, flavor, and texture.

Documentation & Sample Logistics:

• Maintain organized laboratory notebooks, formulation records, sample logs, and inventory documentation.

• Package and ship customer and supplier samples using approved shipping procedures (UPS, FedEx, etc.).

• Ensure all samples are accurately labeled, documented, and traceable.

Food Safety & Compliance

• Follow Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs), food safety standards, sanitation procedures, and company policies.

• Maintain a safe laboratory environment by following all safety protocols and proper handling procedures for food ingredients and laboratory equipment.

• Participate in continuous improvement initiatives and perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Chemistry, Biology, Nutrition, Culinary Science, or a related scientific field preferred.

Requirements:

• 1–3 years of experience in food manufacturing, food research & development, quality assurance, laboratory operations, or a related technical environment preferred.

• Experience preparing formulations, laboratory samples, or supporting product development projects is a plus.

• Strong attention to detail with excellent organizational and time management skills.

• Ability to accurately follow formulas, recipes, batch records, and written procedures.

• Basic understanding of food ingredients, food processing, and laboratory equipment.

• Ability to maintain accurate documentation and laboratory records.

• Strong verbal and written communication skills.

• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision while collaborating effectively with cross-functional teams.

• Ability to perform basic sensory evaluations, including identifying differences in appearance, aroma, texture, and flavor.

• Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, and Outlook).

• Demonstrated commitment to food safety, quality, workplace safety, and continuous improvement.

Working Conditions:

• Work is primarily performed in an R&D laboratory setting within a food manufacturing environment.

• Must follow all Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs), food safety, sanitation, and company safety policies at all times.

• Ability to stand for extended periods throughout the workday.

• Frequently lift and carry up to 35 pounds.

• Ability to perform repetitive tasks, including weighing, mixing, packaging, and labeling ingredients.

• Ability to distinguish colors, textures, aromas, and flavors for product evaluations.

• May occasionally enter production areas to support pilot runs, production trials, and product evaluations, requiring adherence to all applicable safety and PPE requirements.

What do we offer:

• Medical, Dental and Vision Benefits

• Life Insurance

• 401K

• PTO

• Company Paid Holidays

• Career advancement and training