Job Description

Join the TEAM at Western Smokehouse Partners!

We’re more than just a leader in the better-for-you meat snack industry-we’re a team driven by quality, innovation and a passion for great meat sticks and jerky. With seven facilities across four states, we’re setting the standard in excellence for our co-manufacturing and private label customers. As we continue to grow, we’re looking for highly motivated individuals who want to be part of an industry-leading company that values contribution, collaboration, and continuous improvement.

Western Smokehouse Partners is seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Research and Development (R&D) Technician to join our team in the meat snack industry . In this role, you will collaborate with cross-functional teams to innovate and enhance our range of meat-based snack sticks. You will assist in product development, testing, and optimization to ensure the delivery of high-quality, flavorful, and market-leading meat snacks. This position is ideal for someone passionate about food innovation and looking to build a career in the food industry, particularly within the protein snack space.

Key Responsibilities:

• Product Development Support: Assist in the formulation and development of new meat snack products, ensuring alignment with industry trends, customer preferences, and nutritional standards.
• Specification Development: Develop and create detailed specifications and assist with production implementation.
• Ingredient Research: Explore new ingredients, flavors, and techniques to enhance the taste, texture, and nutritional profile of meat snacks.
• Product Testing and Prototyping(R and D Center): Assist in the creation of prototypes for new products, conducting taste tests, texture analysis, and shelf-life evaluations.
• Quality Control: Help ensure the consistency and safety of products by performing quality checks and adhering to regulatory and safety standards throughout the R&D process.
• Data Collection and Analysis: Collect and analyze data from trials and tests, providing insights and recommendations for product improvement.
• Collaboration with Teams: Work closely with production, marketing, and supply chain teams to ensure successful commercialization of new products.
• Regulatory Compliance: Assist in ensuring all products meet relevant food safety, labeling, and industry regulations.

Smokehouse Compliance: Ability to travel to our facilities and conduct research trials and verify smokehouse compliance

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Meat Science, Food Science, Nutrition, Chemistry, or a related field.
• Experience or strong interest in the meat industry, specifically in snack sticks, is a plus.
• Basic understanding of food science principles, ingredient functionality, and product development processes.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communication and teamwork abilities.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, collaborative environment.
• Familiarity with food safety and regulatory standards (HACCP, USDA, FDA) is a plus.
• Travel required up to 50% but negotiable.
• Job based in Galesburg, IL
• Preferred Skills:
• Prior internship or work experience in food manufacturing or product development.
• Proficiency in data analysis and reporting.
• Microsoft 365

Benefits:

• Competitive salary
• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• Career development opportunities
• 401k match program.

If you are passionate about food innovation and eager to contribute to a growing industry, apply today to join our R&D team!

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