Research & Development Assistant in Hicksville, New York at Nassau Candy

R&D Assistant (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 detailStrong organizational and time management skillsAbility to multitask in a fast-paced environmentCollaborative and team-orientedProblem-solving mindsetPrecision and accuracyStrong follow-throughAbility to communicate effectively with both office and production employeesPhysical 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.