R&D Lab/Sample Technician

EFCO Products is seeking a detail-oriented and motivated R&D Lab & Sample Technician to support product development, sample fulfillment, and laboratory activities from concept through commercialization. This role plays a key part in bringing new ideas to life by preparing samples, supporting product testing, coordinating customer sample requests, and maintaining accurate documentation in a fast-paced food manufacturing environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare laboratory samples of new and existing products.
• Support product development activities, including ingredient testing, cost optimization, and alternative vendor validation.
• Assist with product ideation, packaging concepts, and customer-specific applications.
• Create recipes, photographs, product labels, preparation instructions, and trend information to support marketing and customer sample programs.
• Coordinate the complete sample fulfillment process, including preparation, packaging, labeling, documentation, shipping, tracking, and inventory management.
• Maintain accurate sample, inventory, traceability, and shipping records.
• Communicate with Sales, Customer Service, Quality Assurance, Production, and R&D to ensure timely and accurate sample deliveries.
• Generate shipping labels and coordinate shipments using carrier portals
• Support ERP system data entry, validation, troubleshooting, and user training activities.
• Interface with customers and vendors during on-site visits.
• Follow all food safety, quality, GMP, SQF, and regulatory requirements.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degreein Food Science, Food Technology, Culinary Science, Chemistry, Biology, or a related scientific field.
• 1-3 years of experience in food manufacturing, food quality, laboratory operations, product development support, sample management, or a related technical environment.
• Working knowledge of Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs), food safety principles, and quality systems.
• Experience in an SQF-certified food manufacturing environment is a plus.
• Experience with ERP systems
• Knowledge of food labeling, ingredient functionality, product development processes, shipping requirements, and inventory control is beneficial.

What We’re Looking For

• Strong organizational and project management skills.
• Excellent attention to detail and commitment to accuracy.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines simultaneously.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Self-motivated, hands-on, and comfortable working independently.
• Ability to regularly lift and carry packages up to 50 pounds.
• Commitment to maintaining food safety, quality, and continuous improvement standards.

If you’re passionate about food innovation and enjoy a role that combines product development, laboratory work, and customer sample coordination, we’d love to hear from you!