Technician I, Manufacturability & Facilities

We make pet food taste great! For over 30 years, AFB International has been providing pet food solutions that enrich the lives of pets and their people.  Our palatants are specially designed to make pet foods, treats and supplements taste better, ensuring pets receive the vital nutrients they need. We know wagging tails, licking whiskers and empty bowls equal happy pets and happy pet parents. Join AFB and you'll be a part of a team of highly skilled professionals that provide the greatest contribution to our success as an organization. Our team members are diverse, creative, passionate experts who are genuinely dedicated to our mission, our customers, and the pets we serve worldwide. ​

Job Description

Join Our R&D Team as a Technician I (Manufacturability & Facilities)!

Are you ready to launch a career in science, innovation, and pet nutrition? We’re looking for a Technician I (Manufacturing & Facilities) to join our fast-paced, hands-on R&D team, where you’ll play a key role in helping create the next generation of pet food and flavor products.

What You’ll Be Doing

As a Technician I, you’ll assist in the preparation, testing, and development of products used in palatability research. You’ll work closely with our scientists and researchers to operate equipment, prepare samples, track inventory, and ensure lab cleanliness and accuracy.

Your key responsibilities will include:

• Setting up and operating food processing equipment such as meat grinders, extruders, and canning machines
• Preparing pet food samples and coating products for testing
• Weighing ingredients and assisting with flavor preparations
• Monitoring equipment and ensuring accurate electronic logs
• Cleaning and sanitizing lab spaces and tools to maintain a safe, organized environment
• Rotating through various tasks and cross-training within the lab team

What You Bring to the Table

We’re looking for individuals who are detail-oriented, team-focused, and passionate about science and innovation.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Food Science, Chemistry, Biology, or related field
  OR 2+ years of relevant lab or production experience
• Strong understanding of lab safety, handling ingredients, and food processing techniques
• Basic math and data entry skills – ability to calculate ratios, log data, and use MS Office tools
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds and stand for extended periods
• Willingness to learn, take initiative, and grow with the team

Physical & Work Environment Details:

• Regular standing, walking, and manual handling of equipment
• Lifting up to 50 pounds
• Working around food processing equipment and machinery
• Use of PPE (safety glasses, hearing protection, safety shoes, etc.)

Why Join Us?

At our company, innovation starts with people—and that includes you. As part of our R&D team, you'll get hands-on experience with cutting-edge equipment and play a critical role in shaping high-quality products that animals (and their owners) love.

Here’s what sets us apart:

• Growth mindset – develop new technical skills and gain cross-training across labs
• Work with purpose – contribute to real-time research and product development
• Team-first culture – collaborate with some of the best minds in food science and pet nutrition
• Professional development – opportunity to grow within R&D and beyond

Ready to Apply?

If you’re looking to be part of a collaborative, innovative R&D environment and play a key role in product development, we want to hear from you!

AFB International is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE). Qualified applicants are considered for employment without regard to race, religion, color, sex, age, disability, sexual orientation, genetic information, national origin, or veteran status.