Samples Associate

Samples Associate (Bilingual – English/Spanish)

Department: Research & Development
Reports To: Manager, Confectionery/Food R&D and Manufacturing Optimization
Location: Hicksville, NY (On-Site)

Position Summary

Nassau Candy is seeking a detail-oriented, bilingual R&D Assistant to support our Manager of Confectionery/Food R&D and Manufacturing Optimization. This role is critical in helping execute day-to-day R&D activities, coordinating product sample development, and serving as a liaison between Product Development and Production. The successful candidate will enable the R&D Manager to focus on strategic initiatives by ensuring projects, samples, schedules, and production support activities are completed accurately and efficiently.

This is a hands-on position that requires strong organizational skills, precision, and the ability to work collaboratively in both an office and manufacturing environment.

Essential Responsibilities

Product Sample Preparation

• Prepare product samples for internal evaluation, customer presentations, and product development projects.
• Accurately weigh, measure, and document ingredients using laboratory and production scales.
• Maintain organized sample records, formulas, and supporting documentation.
• Ensure consistency, quality, and food safety standards are followed throughout sample preparation.

Production & Product Development Support

• Serve as a liaison between Product Development and Production to ensure successful execution of R&D initiatives.
• Coordinate sample production with manufacturing teams on the production floor.
• Assist with troubleshooting production issues related to product development.
• Communicate project status and timelines between departments.

Project Coordination

• Assist with long-term R&D and manufacturing optimization projects.
• Support formulation updates, including flavor changes and ingredient modifications.

• Help organize project timelines, priorities, and schedules.
• Track project progress and follow up with stakeholders to ensure deadlines are met.

Ingredient Sourcing & Procurement Support

• Assist with sourcing ingredients and materials required for product development.
• Coordinate receipt and organization of ingredients for sample preparation.
• Maintain inventory of R&D ingredients and supplies.
• Work with suppliers and internal purchasing as needed.

Administrative & Documentation

• Maintain accurate records of formulas, testing results, specifications, and sample logs.
• Prepare reports and documentation to support R&D activities.
• Assist with scheduling product evaluations, production trials, and project meetings.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives within the R&D department.

Qualifications

Required

• Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Food Technology, Chemistry, Biology, or a related scientific field preferred. Relevant food manufacturing experience may be considered in lieu of a degree.
• Bilingual in English and Spanish is required.
• Experience in a food manufacturing, laboratory, quality, or R&D environment.
• Strong mathematical skills and ability to accurately weigh and measure ingredients.
• Experience using digital scales and measuring equipment with a high degree of precision.
• Excellent attention to detail and organizational skills.

• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Excel, Outlook, Word).

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with confectionery, candy, baked goods, snack foods, or specialty food manufacturing.
• Understanding of GMPs, food safety, sanitation, and allergen control.
• Experience supporting product development or commercialization projects.

Key Competencies

• Exceptional attention to detail
• Strong organizational and time management skills
• Ability to multitask in a fast-paced environment
• Collaborative and team-oriented
• Problem-solving mindset
• Precision and accuracy
• Strong follow-through
• Ability to communicate effectively with both office and production employees

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand and walk throughout a manufacturing facility.
• Ability to lift up to 30 pounds occasionally.
• Ability to accurately measure and handle food ingredients.
• Comfortable working in both office and production environments.

Work Environment

• Full-time, on-site position located in Hicksville, New York.
• Regular interaction with production, quality, purchasing, and product development teams.
• Work is performed in both office and food manufacturing environments requiring adherence to GMP and food safety standards.

Why This Role Matters

This position plays a vital role in accelerating product development, supporting manufacturing optimization, and ensuring successful execution of R&D initiatives. By managing daily operational activities, coordinating samples, and supporting cross-functional projects, the R&D Assistant enables the Manager of Confectionery/Food R&D and Manufacturing Optimization to focus on innovation, strategic product development, and continuous improvement initiatives that drive the business forward.