R&D Associate

Job Description

We 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.

ResponsibilitiesAssist 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 Environment

The work environment includes laboratory, kitchen, and manufacturing settings.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $65000.00 - $85000.00/yr.

Health & Wellness

Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance
Health Savings Account (HSA) and Flexible Spending Account (FSA) options
Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for mental health and personal support
Wellness incentives and virtual health resources
Financial Security

401(k) retirement plan with company match
Life and AD&D insurance (basic and voluntary)
Short-Term and Long-Term Disability coverage
Optional critical illness, accident, and hospital indemnity insurance
Work-Life Balance

Paid Time Off (PTO) including vacation, sick leave, and holidays
Paid parental leave
Flexible work arrangements (remote/hybrid options where applicable)
Volunteer time off and community engagement programs
Professional Growth

Tuition reimbursement and continuing education support
Access to online learning platforms and certifications
Career development programs and mentorship opportunities
Additional Perks

Employee discount programs through partners like Abenity
Commuter benefits and transportation subsidies
Legal and identity theft protection plans
Company-sponsored events and recognition programs

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Steeleville,IL.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Jul 15, 2025.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 30,000 consultants and more than 4,500 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.