Research and Innovation Lab Technician

Who We Are

At Nature's Touch, you're not just building a career; you're joining a trailblazing team that believes in the power of collaboration, diversity, and continuous learning.

Since 2004, we've been on a fast-growing journey from a small startup to a global leader in private-label frozen food manufacturing. With modern facilities in North America-including two plants in the U.S.-we proudly supply millions of households worldwide.

What drives us is simple : a commitment to quality, innovation, and sustainability. We're shaping the future of frozen fruit-and we'd love for you to be part of that growth. At Nature's Touch, growth opportunities are everywhere!

The Opportunity

As a Research & Innovation (R&I) Lab Technician, you will be an essential part of the R&D team, reporting directly to the Corporate Raw Material Supervisor. This role is primarily focused on benchmarking competitor products and supporting new product launches. You will prepare and analyze product samples, maintain accurate records, and ensure all testing procedures meet high-quality standards.

With your technical expertise, keen attention to detail, and collaborative mindset, you will contribute to innovation and help bring R&D projects to life. In this role, you will also gain valuable exposure to cutting-edge product development, expand your technical skills, and grow within a dynamic and innovative environment.

📍 Front Royal, Virginia, USA | On-site work model

What You'll Do

Drive the development and testing of new product samples, with a strong focus on benchmarking competitor fruit products.

Create high-quality prototypes on both lab and pilot scale according to product developer guidance.

Optimize lab operations by managing supplies, maintaining organization, and ensuring proper sample storage.

Oversee pilot room equipment and supplies, keeping the space ready for experimental testing.

Execute shelf-life studies to evaluate product longevity and stability under various conditions.

Lead tasting panels to gather actionable feedback from R&D and Innovation teams.

Maintain comprehensive documentation for regulatory compliance, internal reporting, and tax credits.

Support production trials, ensuring seamless transitions from lab to production scale.

Collaborate with product developers to refine formulations and conduct necessary testing.

Analyze experimental and trial data to provide insights and recommendations that drive innovation.

Contribute to the success of R&D projects, making a tangible impact on product innovation and the company's growth.

What You Bring

Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Food Engineering, Chemistry, Biology, or related field.

1-3 years of R&D or QA experience in food manufacturing preferred (strong new graduates will also be considered).

Proficiency in Microsoft Excel (pivot tables, formulas, graphs) is essential; PowerPoint and Smartsheet are an asset.

Familiarity with GMP and food safety regulations.

Strong verbal and written communication skills for clear reporting and cross-functional collaboration (English required; Spanish is a plus).

Ability to manage analysis and documentation of experimental results, ensuring accuracy and compliance.

Collaborative, proactive, and extroverted mindset with a passion for food and innovation.

What to Expect

Physical requirements : Ability to lift up to 30 lbs and work in cold environments (freezers and 4°C operations).

On-site presence : Role is 100% on-site at the Virginia plant (5 days / week), with flexibility to start between 7 AM and 9 AM. After 6 months, potential for 1 remote day per week.

Weekly travel : Use of a personal vehicle is required for weekly retail visits to collect competitor product samples (no company car provided).

Training & support : Work closely with the Director of Innovation and cross-collaboration with R&D / QA / operations teams.

Growth : Opportunity to expand responsibilities as the Virginia plant takes on more innovation projects.

Why Join Us

Be part of a fast-growing global company with a collaborative and innovative culture.

Work in a brand-new plant where your contributions will have a visible impact every day.

This is a hands-on role - from lab testing to plant trials to benchmarking products in stores, no two days are the same.

Gain exposure to every stage of product development, not just one piece of the process.

As we grow, you'll have the chance to take on more responsibility and build your career with us.

Join a supportive, close-knit team that values clear communication, teamwork, and people who roll up their sleeves.

Job Posted by ApplicantPro