Seasonal R&D Lab Technician

Company Description

From tree to table, POM Wonderful delivers a whole lot of healthy. Known for our iconic double-bubble bottle, we grow, harvest, package, and market fresh pomegranates, pomegranate arils, and a selection of delicious pomegranate-blended juices and teas. With over 9,000 acres in California's Central Valley, POM Wonderful is committed to unleashing the antioxidant power of our handpicked pomegranates.

JOB SUMMARY:

The R&D Department is seeking a detail-oriented seasonal employee to support R&D activities. This position assists with fruit sampling and evaluation, analytical testing, data collection, sensory evaluations, and research trials. The ideal candidate is dependable, organized, and able to work effectively in a fast-paced laboratory and packinghouse environment.

Job Description

• Learn and perform fruit sampling, grading, and maturity and quality assessments according to established procedures.
• Prepare, label, organize, and evaluate fruit samples for R&D trials.
• Perform analytical testing using laboratory equipment, including refractometers, pH meters, balances, and texture analyzers.
• Accurately collect, record, and enter experimental data and communicate results and observations to R&D staff.
• Follow study protocols and standard operating procedures (SOPs) to ensure accurate and consistent testing and data collection.
• Assist with the setup and execution of R&D trials and sensory evaluations.
• Maintain laboratory equipment, supplies, samples, and work areas in a clean and organized condition.
• Apply basic safety knowledge and follow safety procedures when working in commercial fruit packinghouse environments, including awareness of equipment, traffic flow, and food safety practices.
• Perform other duties as assigned to support R&D activities.

Qualifications

• Previous laboratory, agricultural, quality control, or research experience preferred.
• Coursework or a degree in Biology, Chemistry, Plant Science, Food Science, Agriculture, or a related field preferred but not required.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to accurately follow written and verbal instructions.
• Good communication, organizational, and time-management skills.
• Ability to prioritize tasks and work efficiently on multiple projects.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office, particularly Excel.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively as part of a team.

Physical and Work Requirements

• Ability to stand and perform repetitive tasks for extended periods.
• Good manual dexterity and ability to lift and carry up to 50 lbs.
• Ability to work in laboratory, outdoor, warehouse, refrigerated, and commercial packinghouse environments.
• Flexibility to work hours based on harvest schedules and research needs.