Research Assistant - APC

To support research projects by assisting with analytical analysis of samples, conducting simple experiments, summarizing results, and assisting with laboratory maintenance and cleanliness.

JOB QUALIFICATIONS:

Education: High school diploma required. Bachelor’s degree in a science-focused area, such as Biochemistry, Chemistry, Biology, Biotechnology, or Food Science is preferred.

Experience: Laboratory skills and knowledge of laboratory equipment and analytical techniques preferred. Research experience a plus.

JOB DUTIES:

• Perform quality assurance tests on samples and diets as needed, including pH, moisture, solids, ash, protein, texture, viscosity, temperature, color, weight, etc.
• Provide needed assistance to colleagues to conduct some trials needed to achieve their objectives of R&D projects.
• Conduct simple experiments and record measurements and observations under the guidance of scientists.
• Maintain accurate and detailed documentation of all laboratory work including methodology and results.
• Report research findings to senior staff and team members.
• Review literature.
• Occasional travel to collect raw materials/ingredients.
• Order and maintain lab supplies, chemicals, and ingredients.
• Maintain proper care and usage of laboratory and analytical equipment.
• Maintain clean and safe working environment.
• Clean equipment and APC lab spaces as needed.
• Develop and maintain complete, accurate sample data files on computer for R&D to aid in product and process traceability.
• All other related duties as assigned by Principal Scientist.

JOB REQUIREMENTS:

• Knowledge of basic lab techniques and equipment such as but not limited to pipetting, centrifugation, and solution preparation.
• Understanding of pet food and/or food science is a plus.
• Basic computer skills (Windows, MS Excel, MS Word).
• Basic statistical analysis.
• Excellent organizational and time management skills with strong attention to detail.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to work successfully in a team setting.
• Desire to learn new techniques and adapt to changing research needs.
• Ability to understand and communicate technical information.
• Ability to manage and maintain confidential information such as formulas and data from customers, R&D project, proprietary formulas, research methods/techniques and current or future projects.

BASIC PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

Approximate: 8-Hour Day (ability to show flexibility based on project deadlines)

Key:                    Occasional           =            0% - 33%

                                           Frequent              =            34% - 66%

                                           Continuous          =            67% - 100%

                                           N/A                      =            Not Applicable

Standing - Frequent

Sitting - Occasional

Walking - Frequent

Bending/Kneeling/Crouching/Stooping - Frequent

Reaching Above Shoulder - Frequent

Climbing (stairs, ladders, etc.) - Frequent

Working on Heights:

Unprotected Heights - NA

Protected Heights - NA

Lifting Weights from 0 to 50 pounds - Frequent

Push/Pull/Maneuver Equipment/Products/Materials

Weighing from 0 to 50 pounds - Frequent

Being Around and/or Operating Moving Machinery/Equipment - Frequent

Operating a Vehicle (as a part of your job) - Occasional

Read/Monitor Gauges on Various Equipment/Machinery - Frequent

Hand Movements:

Recording Data - Continuous

Operating Office Equipment - Occasional

Operating Computer - Continuous

Simple Grasping (right and left) - Occasional

Firm Grasping (right and left) - Occasional

Fine Manipulating (right and left) - Frequent

Foot Movements to Operate Foot Controls - Occasional

Good Vision, Corrected to Normal; or Ability to Access

Required Information and to Perform Job Duties - Yes

Color Definition - Yes

Good Hearing, Corrected to Normal; or Ability to Communicate

and/or Understand Required Information and to Perform Job Duties - Yes

Ability to be Mobile throughout Required Work Areas - Yes

Office - Frequent

Multiple Locations - Frequent

Plant - Occasional

Equipment/Maint