Sr. Research & Development Application Technician

The Sr. Research & Development Application Technician will support Ardent Mills' Research & Development and Product Development teams by planning, preparing, and executing product application trials, ingredient evaluations, and customer-focused technical projects. This role works closely with scientists, product developers, milling teams, and cross-functional partners to assess ingredient functionality, product performance, and process optimization across a variety of grain-, legume and seed-based applications. The senior technician is responsible for accurately conducting laboratory, pilot plant (at Third Parties if needed), and bakery application testing; documenting and communicating results; maintaining application equipment; and supporting innovation, renovation, and customer solution initiatives. This role requires strong technical aptitude, attention to detail, and the ability to translate analytical and application findings into actionable recommendations. As assigned, this position will support new product development, ingredient functionality studies, process improvement initiatives, customer projects, and evaluation of emerging technologies and methods that enhance product performance and customer value.
Work safely in laboratory, pilot plant, and bakery environments while adhering to all Ardent Mills Food Safety and EH&S policies.
Serve as a key contributor to the development of the R&D lab infrastructure, organizational systems, safety practices, technical processes, laboratory standards, and operational best practices that support innovation, customer projects, and future growth.
Support and lead implementation of laboratory management systems, safety systems, inventory controls, preventative maintenance programs, calibration programs, and equipment readiness processes
Support the planning, setup, execution, and documentation of application trials, product evaluations, and development projects.
Prepare and evaluate grain-based products, including flour, bakery mixes, dough systems, baked goods, and other customer-relevant applications.
Assess ingredient functionality, processing characteristics, and finished product performance using established methods and protocols.
Accurately generate, record, analyze, and communicate technical results and observations to project teams and stakeholders.
Operate, calibrate, maintain, and troubleshoot laboratory, bakery, pilot plant (limited support at Third Parties if needed), and processing equipment.
Maintain detailed electronic records, databases, laboratory notebooks, and technical reports in accordance with company standards.
Collaborate with R&D scientists, GQR team members, quality teams, operations, and commercial partners to support innovation and customer-focused initiatives.
Assist in the development, validation, and continuous improvement of application methods, testing protocols, and product evaluation techniques.
Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment while managing inventories of ingredients, supplies, and consumables.
Lead ingredient, supplies, consumables ordering, inventory management, receiving, storage, and disposition best practices
Train team members on equipment operation, safety procedures, and laboratory practices as needed.
Prepare, package, document, and ship samples to customers, vendors, and internal stakeholders.
Partner with AMIC team members to establish, document, and continuously improve laboratory workflows, processes, and best practices.
Education
HS Diploma or GED; 1–2 year vocational training preferred
Associate's degree in Food Science, Grain Science, Biology, Chemistry, Culinary Arts, Baking Science, Engineering Technology, or a related technical field preferred
Experience
4+ years of relevant experience
Minimum of 7-10 years of experience in food product development, application testing, bakery science, grain science, or a related R&D environment preferred
Experience with pilot plant operations, baking applications, or ingredient functionality testing preferred
Experience supporting customer-facing technical projects or innovation programs preferred
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
Demonstrated knowledge of laboratory practices, product development processes, and scientific methodology
Understanding of ingredient functionality and food application testing, preferably within grain-based products
Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and data management systems
Ability to work independently while contributing effectively within cross-functional teams
Strong written and verbal communication skills, including technical report writing and presentation of results
Strong attention to detail and ability to organize and manage technical information
Ability to adapt to changing priorities and manage multiple projects simultaneously
Demonstrated organizational, project management, and time management skills
Strong sense of urgency and commitment to delivering high-quality results
Knowledge of cereal grains, flour functionality, and bakery product development preferred
Travel
Willingness to travel up to 10%
Physical Demands
Ability to lift up to 50 lbs (20 kg)
Ability to work in office, laboratory, pilot plant, bakery, cooler, freezer, and manufacturing environments
Ability to stand for extended periods during testing and product evaluations
Working Conditions
Ability to work with and consume wheat-based products; no wheat/gluten sensitivity, intolerance, or allergy
Position requires regular work in laboratory and pilot plant environments where all major food allergens may be present, including but not limited to wheat, milk, eggs, soy, peanuts, tree nuts, sesame, fish, and shellfish
Must be able to safely work in and around products and ingredients containing food allergens
This is a full-time, in-office position requiring on-site attendance five days per week
Location:
Denver CO
Address:
1875 Lawrence Street, Denver CO, 80202
Additional Locations (if applicable):
Employment Type:
Full time
Additional Information:
Competitive Compensation:
We provide market-driven base pay, based on skills, abilities, and level of experiences. Our salary ranges are broad, and individual salary will be market competitive based on a candidate’s unique set of skills and level of experience. The starting range for this position is $28.70 - $38.31, with additional earning potential possible commensurate with experience. Additionally, we believe that our team members are the reason for our success and all team members are incentive eligible with a target based on contribution, company performance, and individual results achieved. While the specific bonus plan and target amount will be determined based on the role and breadth of contributions, the targeted bonus plan and targeted percentage amount for this role is Bonus - MIP, 5% Annual.
Benefits:
At Ardent Mills we offer a wide range of benefits to our team members and their eligible family members. Some of our great benefit programs you may be eligible for include: • Medical, Dental and Vision Coverage• Health and Dependent Savings Accounts • Life and Disability Programs • Voluntary Benefit Programs • Company Sponsored Wellness Programs • Retirement Saving