Job Description
Job Description
R&D Assistant (Bilingual – English/Spanish)
Department: Research & Development
Reports To: Manager, Confectionery/Food R&D and Manufacturing Optimization
Location: Hicksville, NY (On-Site)
Position Summary
Nassau Candy is seeking a detail-oriented, bilingual R&D Assistant to support our Manager of Confectionery/Food R&D and Manufacturing Optimization. This role is critical in helping execute day-to-day R&D activities, coordinating product sample development, and serving as a liaison between Product Development and Production. The successful candidate will enable the R&D Manager to focus on strategic initiatives by ensuring projects, samples, schedules, and production support activities are completed accurately and efficiently.
This is a hands-on position that requires strong organizational skills, precision, and the ability to work collaboratively in both an office and manufacturing environment.
Essential Responsibilities
Product Sample Preparation
- Prepare product samples for internal evaluation, customer presentations, and product development projects.
- Accurately weigh, measure, and document ingredients using laboratory and production scales.
- Maintain organized sample records, formulas, and supporting documentation.
- Ensure consistency, quality, and food safety standards are followed throughout sample preparation.
Production & Product Development Support
- Serve as a liaison between Product Development and Production to ensure successful execution of R&D initiatives.
- Coordinate sample production with manufacturing teams on the production floor.
- Assist with troubleshooting production issues related to product development.
- Communicate project status and timelines between departments.
Project Coordination
- Assist with long-term R&D and manufacturing optimization projects.
- Support formulation updates, including flavor changes and ingredient modifications.
- Help organize project timelines, priorities, and schedules.
- Track project progress and follow up with stakeholders to ensure deadlines are met.
Ingredient Sourcing & Procurement Support
- Assist with sourcing ingredients and materials required for product development.
- Coordinate receipt and organization of ingredients for sample preparation.
- Maintain inventory of R&D ingredients and supplies.
- Work with suppliers and internal purchasing as needed.
Administrative & Documentation
- Maintain accurate records of formulas, testing results, specifications, and sample logs.
- Prepare reports and documentation to support R&D activities.
- Assist with scheduling product evaluations, production trials, and project meetings.
- Support continuous improvement initiatives within the R&D department.
Qualifications
Required
- Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Food Technology, Chemistry, Biology, or a related scientific field preferred. Relevant food manufacturing experience may be considered in lieu of a degree.
- Bilingual in English and Spanish is required.
- Experience in a food manufacturing, laboratory, quality, or R&D environment.
- Strong mathematical skills and ability to accurately weigh and measure ingredients.
- Experience using digital scales and measuring equipment with a high degree of precision.
- Excellent attention to detail and organizational skills.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Excel, Outlook, Word).
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience with confectionery, candy, baked goods, snack foods, or specialty food manufacturing.
- Understanding of GMPs, food safety, sanitation, and allergen control.
- Experience supporting product development or commercialization projects.
Key Competencies
- Exceptional attention to detail
- Strong organizational and time management skills
- Ability to multitask in a fast-paced environment
- Collaborative and team-oriented
- Problem-solving mindset
- Precision and accuracy
- Strong follow-through
- Ability to communicate effectively with both office and production employees
Physical Requirements
- Ability to stand and walk throughout a manufacturing facility.
- Ability to lift up to 30 pounds occasionally.
- Ability to accurately measure and handle food ingredients.
- Comfortable working in both office and production environments.
Work Environment
- Full-time, on-site position located in Hicksville, New York.
- Regular interaction with production, quality, purchasing, and product development teams.
- Work is performed in both office and food manufacturing environments requiring adherence to GMP and food safety standards.
Why This Role Matters
This position plays a vital role in accelerating product development, supporting manufacturing optimization, and ensuring successful execution of R&D initiatives. By managing daily operational activities, coordinating samples, and supporting cross-functional projects, the R&D Assistant enables the Manager of Confectionery/Food R&D and Manufacturing Optimization to focus on innovation, strategic product development, and continuous improvement initiatives that drive the business forward.