R&D Technician

R&D Technician

Department: R & D

Reports to: Senior Manager, R&D Capabilities and Excellence

Status: Onsite - Hamilton, ON

The pay range for the role is $52,300 to $87,100 plus bonus, comprehensive benefits, retirement savings plan, paid vacation, and other perks and opportunities.

Purpose:

The R&D Technician provides hands-on support for product development through pilot plant trials, laboratory testing, sample preparation, and data collection. Working under the technical direction of a Research Scientist or Supervisor, the role executes approved formulations, trial plans, and testing methods to support development from concept through full-scale production. The position also supports the day-to-day readiness, cleanliness, and maintenance of laboratory and pilot plant facilities.

Key Responsibilities:

• Good understanding of Formulations and ingredients specifications.
• Operate pilot plant manufacturing equipment for batch trials following the approved SOP.
• Prepare ingredients, samples, equipment and materials for trials and testing according to approved plans.
• Conduct analytical testing on samples and finished goods as per required instructions demonstrating high accuracy and precision.
• Ability to compile data and complete simple reports as per directions given from Research Scientist or Principal Scientist.
• Perform organoleptic testing and instrumentation testing following the approved SOP.
• Conduct sensory analysis of various dairy products with high accuracy and precision.
• Perform daily maintenance on equipment used in analytical testing or pilot batching.
• Prepare samples and required technical information for external laboratory testing, in coordination with the Lab Coordinator.
• Record ingredient usage, maintain assigned inventory records, and communicate replenishment needs to the Lab Coordinator.
• Perform laboratory and pilot plant cleaning daily as instructed.
• Follow quality procedures and safety program as per approved protocols.
• Support the execution of experiments and plant trials in manufacturing facilities according to approved plans and technical direction.
• Maintain accurate, complete, and traceable records of samples, formulations, processing conditions, test results, and trial observations.
• Identify and promptly report deviations, unexpected results, and equipment issues to the appropriate technical or operational lead.
• Support continuous improvement by sharing practical observations and suggesting improvements to SOPs, testing practices, and trial execution.
• Travel up to 20% to various sites and a valid G2 License with daily access to a car.
• Ability to lift up to 20 kg’s
• Other duties as assigned

Qualifications:

• Minimum College diploma in Food Science/Food Technology, Food Analytical Chemistry, Food Microbiology, Food/Chemical Engineering or Culinary School.
• Knowledge of pasteurization techniques, hygienic product handling, and basic pilot plant equipment operation and sanitation is an asset.

Skills:

• Basic knowledge of food formulations, ingredient functionality and processing principles; dairy-specific knowledge is an asset.
• Ability to perform formulation and batch calculations, including percentages, unit conversions and batch scaling.
• Ability to operate laboratory instruments and follow approved analytical testing methods accurately.
• Strong organizational skills and ability to complete assigned trial and testing activities independently once trained following approved procedures.
• Work primarily on days, but must be able to work flexible hours based upon business needs
• Working knowledge of food safety, GMPs, sanitation and laboratory safety.
• Working proficiency in Excel and ability to learn R&D software systems.
• Good communication and teamwork skills, including clear reporting of results and deviations.

Gay Lea Foods is a Canadian, dairy farmer‑owned co‑operative with a clear purpose: to enrich life with dairy. Founded in 1958, the co‑operative produces high‑quality dairy products while creating lasting value for farming families, meaningful opportunities for employees, and positive impact in communities across Canada. As a co‑operative, Gay Lea Foods believes that when the business succeeds, its members, people, and communities should succeed along with it. To learn more, visit gaylea.com.

Gay Lea Foods is an equal-opportunity employer and values diversity in our workplace.

Reasonable accommodation is available upon request throughout our recruitment and selection process.

Gay Lea Foods may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support aspects of the recruitment process, including screening and assessment.

We are currently accepting applications for this open position.

Thank you for your interest in Gay Lea Foods.

Wishing you all the best with your career search!