Position Summary

We are seeking a hands-on R&D Formulations Technician to support the development, optimization, and scale-up of dietary supplement gummy formulations. This role will work closely with R&D Formulators to prepare lab samples, run bench-top trials, evaluate ingredients, and document results. The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, organized, and comfortable working in a fast-paced lab environment with multiple active projects.

Key Responsibilities

Formulation & Lab Support

• Assist with sample preparation and testing of new and existing gummy supplement products

• Support R&D Formulators in developing new gummy formulas, including flavor, texture, and stability improvements

• Prepare bench-top batches for feasibility trials, reformulations, and troubleshooting

• Execute accurate weighing, staging, and mixing of ingredients using lab scales and measuring equipment

• Perform and document scale calibration checks and basic lab equipment verification

Gummy-Specific Formulation Responsibilities

• Support gummy formulation development using common gummy systems such as:

  • Pectin, gelatin, and other gelling systems

  • Sweeteners and syrups (ex: sucrose, glucose syrup, tapioca syrup, sugar-free systems where applicable)

• Assist with evaluation of gummy performance attributes including:

  • Texture/chew, firmness, stickiness/tack, elasticity, and overall mouthfeel

  • Set time, demolding performance, and flow/handling characteristics

  • Moisture sensitivity, sweating/weeping, crystallization, and stability concerns

• Support trials involving gummy functional ingredients (vitamins, minerals, botanicals, acids) and help identify formulation challenges such as:

  • Off-notes, bitterness, metallic taste, and lingering aftertaste

  • Ingredient-driven texture issues (softening, hardening, graininess, phase separation)

Ingredient Familiarity

• Become familiar with raw materials and their physical characteristics, including:

  • Organoleptic evaluation (color, smell, taste)

  • Bulk density, tapped density, particle size, flow characteristics

• Work with flavor systems and understand typical usage rates and dosing ranges

• Assist with selection and evaluation of functional support ingredients used in gummies such as:

  • Acids, buffering agents, emulsifiers, plasticizers, humectants

  • Colors, flavors, sweeteners, and taste modulation ingredients

• Support taste-masking strategies using bitterness blockers, sweetener systems, and masking agents

Testing, Documentation & Organization

• Mix and track multiple test batches and maintain clear identification of samples

• Record batch sheets, observations, and results using good documentation practices

• Assist with maintaining lab cleanliness, organization, and safe handling of ingredients

• Communicate results and issues clearly to the R&D team to support fast iteration

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Reports To

R&D Formulators / R&D Manager

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Qualifications

Required

• Minimum Associate’s Degree (Food Science, Chemistry, Biology, Nutrition, or related field preferred)

• Ability to take direction from chemists/formulators and follow procedures precisely

• Strong ability to work independently with minimal supervision once trained

• Strong communication skills (verbal, written, listening)

• Ability to prioritize workload and manage multiple projects simultaneously

• Comfortable working hands-on with powders, liquids, flavors, and food-grade ingredients

Preferred (Nice to Have)

• Experience with gummy, confectionery, or food formulation (lab or production)

• Familiarity with dietary supplement dosage forms (gummies, powders, capsules, tablets)

• Experience with basic bench-top lab equipment (mixers, hot plates, thermometers, pH meter, etc.)

• Understanding of ingredient interactions (acids, minerals, sweeteners, gelling systems)

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Key Skills & Attributes

• Strong attention to detail and accurate weighing/mixing

• Organized and able to maintain clean records and sample tracking

• Curious mindset and willingness to learn ingredient behavior and formulation troubleshooting

• Team-oriented with a “get it done” attitude in a lab setting