Product Development Technologist

Job Purpose

The Product Development Technologist supports the development, optimization, and commercialization of dairy products through hands-on laboratory and pilot plant activities as a member of the Product Development team. Working collaboratively in R&D, as well as with cross-functional partners, this role contributes to new product development, product maintenance, product improvement, and continuous improvement initiatives across multiple product lines.

Responsibilities

• Develops and prepares product prototypes using laboratory and pilot plant equipment to support research and development activities
• Selects and applies appropriate methodologies for project execution and contributes to the design and implementation of experimental plans
• Aids in pilot plant trials, scale-up activities, and production validations to support commercialization and successful product launches
• Sets up, operates, and maintains laboratory and pilot plant equipment to ensure accurate and efficient testing
• Participates in product benchmarking and sensory evaluations to assess product quality, performance, and competitive positioning
• Conducts analytical and functional testing of ingredients including raw and processed dairy, utilizing laboratory instrumentation; analyzes, and interprets experimental data to support project recommendations and decision-making
• Maintains accurate laboratory notebooks, test records, and technical documentation in accordance with company procedures
• Prepares summaries, reports, and presentations to communicate project findings and recommendations
• Collaborates with suppliers and internal stakeholders, including other company locations, to procure materials and support project needs
• Sources ingredients and manages laboratory inventory to ensure availability of materials for ongoing projects
• Maintains a clean, organized, and safe laboratory environment in compliance with company and regulatory standards

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in food science, Dairy Science, Chemistry, Biology or related discipline required
• 0-2 years' experience in the food industry (Dairy applications is a plus)
• Ability to handle ambiguity and work in a fast-paced, entrepreneurial environment
• Ability to work autonomously and adapt to changes in schedule
• Proficiency in English: Comfortable with both written and verbal communication, including reading and writing

Working Conditions and Physical Requirements

• 8+ hours sitting/standing/walking
• Ability to lift up to 40 lbs.
• Reaching/bending required
• Exposure to hazards (steam, flammable chemicals, machinery, confined spaces, etc.)
• PPE is required in certain situations and will be provided
• Flexible with hours and scheduling, ability to work all shifts including extended hours as needed (up to 12 hours due to certain trial work)

How Fairlife Nourishes You

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, effective day one!
• Supplemental health plans (hospital indemnity, accident, and critical illness insurance)
• Paid Time Off to recharge and support work-life balance
• Paid parental leave & adoption assistance (up to $10,000)
• Parental support & family care benefits, including childcare resources and lactation support
• 401(k) to support retirement planning with up to 9% in employer match
• Wellness reimbursement (up to $500 for qualified wellbeing expenses)
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for emotional wellbeing and work-life support
• Company-paid life insurance and short-term disability
• Employer HSA funding (for HDHP participants)
• Tuition reimbursement (up to $10,000) and student loan repayment ($200/month)
• Learning & development programs to unlock your full potential
• Rewards & recognition, matching gifts, free product, and Business Resource Groups
• fairlife's nour!sh program is designed to meet you where you are — supporting your individual wellbeing journey while enabling you to do your best work every day.

Position Location

Chicago, IL

Reports to

Manager, Product Development

Travel Requirements

10%