Research Technician - Food Processing/Post-Harvest Technology

Summary

The primary function of the position is to provide specialized laboratory research assistance to promote the mission of Food Science, especially Food Processing, Engineering, and Post-Harvest Technology research at the WVSU AERS. This research program focuses on sustainable food sources for efficient extraction of functional ingredients, adopting various sustainable and novel approaches for improved recovery yield and evaluation of nutritional and biochemical properties of the recovered ingredients and their innovative application (such as packaging material). The research program also includes manufacturing functional food products with added novel bioactive ingredients. The incumbent will work with faculties and students to perform standardized qualitative and quantitative tests to determine the physical, chemical, and engineering properties of food or food ingredients. The position requires the ability and willingness to assist the scientist and other personnel with their projects and conduct independent research. This position is employed by the West Virginia State University Research and Development Corporation.

Essential Functions

1) 70% Laboratory research activities: The primary responsibilities of the incumbent are to conduct research under the direction of the supervisor and to assist in daily laboratory operations.

● Extraction of ingredients and properties analysis. Optimization of ingredient extraction procedures and application of ingredients as packaging/coating materials.

● Shelf life and quality evaluation of packaged samples. Perform and modify documented protocols and assays as needed.

● Value-added food processing and optimization of formulations and processing conditions.

● Collect and maintain accurate records of laboratory work.

● Assist with planning specific research protocols and procedures.

● Assists in the completion of project timelines.

● Perform miscellaneous job-related duties as assigned.

2) 20% Lab management activities

● Clean, sterilize, operate, and maintain equipment, machinery, and instruments used for research.

● Manage reporting, monitoring, and resources.

● Ensure adherence to regulatory requirements, budget, and schedules - be compliant with laboratory safety protocols – proper protective equipment, safe operation of laboratory equipment

● Take inventory of lab supplies and manage chemicals

● Dispose of waste materials safely (both chemical and biological)

3) 10% other – Food sampling

● Depending on the project, the incumbent may need to drive within a radius of 70 miles from WVSU to procure food samples from retail establishments or food production field.

Required and Desired Skills and Traits

● The position requires knowledge of and experience with Food Science, Chemistry, Engineering, or other related disciplines.

● Basic skills to operate lab instruments and equipment.

● Analyze, report, and present datasets using Microsoft Excel, Word, and PowerPoint.

● Valid U.S. driver’s license in good standing.

● Skills to configure and operate equipment used for food analysis, evaluating food properties, and quality control preferred.

Supervisory Responsibilities

The incumbent will be expected to supervise and mentor students in the laboratory.

Competencies

● Attention to detail

● Analytical skills

● Critical thinking

● Technical skills

● Effective communication skills

● Observational skills

● Time management skills

● Problem-solving

● Interpersonal skills

● Teamwork

● Ethics

● Initiative

Work Environment

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is often exposed to chemical reagents and occasional pathogenic microorganisms where caution and adherence to protocol handling are essential. The employee will need to wear safety protection and follow safety procedures. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate. This job operates in a professional office environment. The incumbent in this position will primarily work in laboratory space at the WVSU Agricultural and Environmental Research Station (AERS) in Institute, WV.

Physical Demands

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to stand in a lab. The employee may sometimes lift and/or move 10-25 pounds and up to 50 pounds occasionally. Specific vision requirements for this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.

Position Type and Expected Hours of Work

Days and hours of work are Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Summer schedule is Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. However, due to the nature of the job performed, flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, and occasional overnights, may be required.

Travel

Some travel may be required within a radius of 70 miles from WVSU. Travel to professional meetings and conferences as required.

Required Education and Experience

A Bachelor’s degree in Food Science, Chemistry, Engineering, or related fields from an accredited institution of higher education is required; a Master’s degree is preferred.

Additional Eligibility Qualifications

Must be eligible to work in the U.S.

Other Duties

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time, with or without notice.

Work Authorization/Security Clearance

This position is designated as security-sensitive. Before an offer of employment is made, a pre-employment background investigation will be completed, which may include a criminal background check, education, DMV, and prior employment.

Closing date: This position will remain open until filled. However, first consideration will be given to applicants who reply by April 19, 2024.

To Apply

Information accepted as emailed in a Microsoft Word or PDF format. Qualified candidates may submit a cover letter, resumé, unofficial transcript and contact information for three professional references (name, title, address, phone number, and email address) to rdemployment@wvstateu.edu.

Hard copy applications may be sent to:

ATTN: Search Committee for Research Technician- Food Processing/Post-Harvest Technology

West Virginia State University Research and Development Corporation

PO Box 1000, 201 Byers Admin. Bldg.

Institute, WV 25112

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $18.37 - $22.12 per hour

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Schedule:

• 8 hour shift
• Monday to Friday

Work Location: In person

Salary : $18 - $22