R&D Associate

An independent, family-owned business in Philadelphia, I. Rice & Co. has been making quality food products and flavors since 1884. With considerable growth and expansion, we are looking for qualified employees to help in a variety of positions. As a food manufacturing plant, I. Rice & Co. offers a diverse range of employment opportunities, from production coordination to warehouse stocking and inventory organization.  

I. Rice & Co. remains open as an essential business to serve our communities producing food in the food service and grocery industry. I. Rice provides a safe environment for employees, providing face masks, multiple handwashing stations, and food production sanitation procedures keeping our facilities clean and our employees safe.

R&D Associate Job Description:​​

This position supports the R&D department along with key members of our sales and operations teams. The role of R&D associate is an entry level position with no previous experience necessary. As R&D Associate you will serve as an adjunct position supporting R&D and Operations with plan to grow within the organization. We are a growing company looking to build our team for continued opportunity!

Essential Jobs and Duties:

·       Maintain proper documentation of any raw materials or finished goods, as well as sample request log

·       Support sales team through fulfillment of daily sample requests

·       Must be able to accurately weigh/measure ingredients as well as finished goods for samples

·       Learn the various product lines and functions of each

·       Evaluate product for quality standards for samples

·       Support cross-functional team members in order to meet deadlines

·       Assist in building trade show shipments, maintaining materials in a clean and organized manner

·       Participate in all team activities, including tastings, flavor testing and sensory evaluations

·       Assist in preparations of bench and pilot batch work where needed

·       Maintain proper lab conditions and a clean working environment, and any necessary equipment maintenance  

·       Be capable of working in various work settings of the facility including laboratory, office and plant areas

Required Education/Experience:

·       Kitchen experience preferred but not required, though may be in various formats: cooking, baking, confectionary

·       High School Diploma or GED preferred

·       Training provided as needed

·       Stable work history

·       Must be able to follow Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs)

·       Ability to work in a team environment as well as individually in an environment with changing priorities

·       Ability to manage time effectively 

·       Proficient computer literacy with basic knowledge of MS Office 

·       Good written and oral communication skills as well as attention to detail

Physical Demands

·       Be able to lift 50 pounds

·       Be able to withstand long periods of time on one’s feet