Job Title: R&D Technician
Ruiz Foods has been family owned since 1964, is one of the largest Hispanic-owned companies in the country and is the proud maker of two #1 brands: El Monterey frozen Mexican food and Tornados roller grill taquitos in grocery stores and convenience stores across the US and Canada.
Are you looking for career development opportunities in an exciting company that cares about its team members and consumers alike? Come join our team and help us continue our industry-leading track record of growth, quality, and delicious food!
PART-TIME: Monday – Thursday, 8AM – 1PM
COMPENSATION: $20/HR
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Accurately prepare all samples according to the formula; to include making of cold and hot fillings, assembling, special processing, packaging, and labeling.
- Observe, document and alert R&D project leader of any difficulties in preparing samples, such as high salt levels or texture issues.
- Perform and document cooking validations as assigned.
- Assist in preparation and execution of internal sensory panels and multidepartment product cutting/cooking.
- Maintain adequate supply of all stock items.
- Maintain organization of all small wares, dishware, flatware, and ingredients.
- Maintain adequate supply of kitchen essentials such as foil, plastic wrap, and cleaning supplies.
- Organize and maintain freezers, refrigerators, and storage spaces to include disposing or bringing to attention of R&D Supervisor any products that seem to be forgotten.
- Maintain work surfaces, sinks, microwaves, and kitchen equipment in sanitary order.
- Maintain analytical equipment, including regular calibration, as assigned. Report mal or nonfunctioning equipment to maintenance and to R&D Supervisor.
- Receive, date and store samples of new ingredients or materials, inspect products to ensure they are acceptable.
- Notify appropriate person of the arrival of samples and storage location.
- Work as a team: Assist other R&D members in completing their responsibilities.
- Assist in product production trials.
- Maintain knowledge, understanding and adhere to safety policies, USDA, GMP’s, QA, HACCP, Sanitation rules and regulations, and company policies.
- Regular and dependable attendance and punctuality is an essential function of this position.
- Travel to plants, customers, etc. to support trials and collect raw materials (exposure to cold temperatures). May require hours outside of 1st shift
SKILLS:
- High school diploma required, and 1-3 years related experience with training in a food manufacturing environment; or Bachelors in a science field.
- Knowledge of food handling procedures.
- Must be able to lift to 50 lbs.
- Ability to work under time pressures, flexible, and work with various levels of personnel.
- Basic knowledge of computers and related word processing, and spreadsheet programs.
- Strong math skills (must be able to pass math test with a minimum score of 75%)
- Knowledge of English language (bilingual preferred, English/Spanish)
- Competency in assembly, disassembly, operation, and sanitation of all laboratory equipment.
- Competency in the use of all analytical equipment, including the pH meter, Water Activity Meter, Hunter Colorimeter, and Texture Analyzer.
- At least one year Ruiz Food production experience or equivalent.
- Basic competency in Compusense sensory software.
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QUALIFICATIONS:
- Required education: High school or better.
For more info and to apply, click here.
Ruiz Foods is an equal opportunity employer.
EOE: Male, Female, Vets, Disabled (M/F/V/D).
Ruiz Foods enforces a policy of maintaining a drug-free workforce, including pre-employment substance abuse testing.
