Creative Assistant

JOB SUMMARY: Vibrant Ingredients is seeking a skilled and detail-oriented Creative Assistant to join our Flavor Creation & Applications team. This position will support the creation, development, and evaluation of flavor solutions for a variety of food and beverage applications.

Skills, Traits, & Competencies:

• Ability to work effectively with cross-functional teams, including R&D scientists, product development, marketing, sales and manufacturing
• Safety minded. Consistently works safely and adheres to all safety protocol
• Self-motivated, organized, and follows through to completion
• Clear, concise communication
• Desire to be part of and work in a team environment
• Proficient use of Microsoft Office and other work-related databases

Key Duties and Responsibilities:

• Compounding flavors for liquids, emulsions and liquid for spray drying
• Maintain flavor laboratory raw material inventory and other laboratory supplies
• Support the creation and modification of flavor formulations based on customer needs and market trends
• Maintain accurate records of flavor formulations, testing results, and laboratory equipment
• Uploading and maintenance of flavor formulations
• Conduct sensory evaluations and product testing to ensure flavor profiles meet specifications and quality standards
• Work with cross-functional technical team to resolve/replace problematic materials in formulas to maintain flavor profile
• Collaborate with PD&A, sales and marketing to support customer presentations by preparing samples
• Assist with scale-up trials and collaborate with manufacturing teams to ensure smooth product transitions from lab to production
• Follow established safety and quality procedures in the R&D lab and manufacturing facilities
• Competence in learning existing computer systems, formulation tools and electronic record keeping tools

Minimum Requirements:

• Science degree (preferably in Food Science, Chemistry, or a related field)
• Experience working in a flavor lab or food/beverage R&D environment preferred
• Excellent organizational and time management skills
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a team
• Strong attention to detail and problem-solving skills
• Familiarity with lab equipment and safety protocols