Learning Development Associate Jobs in Smyrna, GA

Job Summary 

The Assistant, R&D will support the daily operations of the Research & Development laboratory while building foundational skills in bakery product development. This position is responsible for coordinating sample production logistics, maintaining project tracking systems, organizing the R&D lab, and supporting product development activities through hands-on bench work and documentation. 

RESPONSIBILITIES: 

Laboratory Operations & Sample Management 

• Coordinate the preparation, packaging, and shipment of customer and internal product samples.  
• Ensure all samples are labeled, documented, and shipped according to established timelines.  
• Maintain shipping supplies, packaging materials, and sample inventories.  
• Organize and maintain the R&D laboratory, ingredient storage areas, and sample inventory.  
• Assist in maintaining a clean, safe, and organized laboratory environment following food safety and sanitation standards. 

Project Documentation 

• Maintain and update status within Smartsheet to provide accurate visibility of sample requests, tracking information, and product photos. 
• Track incoming sample requests and monitor shipping dates. 
• Assist with documenting formulas, bench trials, observations, and development records. 
• Prepare reports, spreadsheets, and project documentation as requested. 
• Maintain organized electronic and physical project files. 

Product Development Support 

• Support Food Scientists and Product Development Managers during bench-scale product development.  
• Prepare ingredients, scale formulas, and assist with mixing, baking, decorating, and evaluating products.  
• Assist with product photography, sample preparation, and sensory evaluations.  
• Participate in ingredient evaluations and prototype preparation.  
• Learn bakery formulation principles and assist with product optimization projects. 

Continuous Learning & Development 

• Build technical knowledge of bakery ingredients, processing methods, and product categories.  
• Participate in R&D training, product evaluations, and innovation activities.  
• Learn Crown Bakeries' product development process from concept through commercialization.  
• Support continuous improvement initiatives within the R&D department. 

QUALIFICATIONS AND SKILLS: 

• Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Bakery Science, Culinary Arts, or a related field preferred; equivalent hands-on experience in a food manufacturing or bakery environment will be considered. 
• 0–2 years of experience in food manufacturing, bakery production, or an R&D environment preferred; internship or co-op experience in a related field is a plus. 
• Basic understanding of baking principles, ingredient functionality, and bakery product categories is preferred. 
• Familiarity with one or more bakery product systems including breads, buns, pastries, sweet goods, or frozen dough is a plus. 
• Strong attention to detail with the ability to follow written and verbal instructions accurately and consistently. 
• Ability to operate standard baking and laboratory equipment with appropriate training and supervision. 
• Basic proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook); ability to learn project tracking and documentation systems. 
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple tasks and prioritize effectively in a fast-paced environment. 
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills; team-oriented with a collaborative mindset. 
• Eagerness to learn and grow within a dynamic R&D environment; self-motivated and proactive. 
• Must be able to stand for extended periods and lift up to 25 pounds as required by lab and kitchen activities. 
• Commitment to food safety, quality, and sanitation standards in all aspects of work. 

WORK ENVIRONMENT: 

This job operates in both a production plant and office environment. The employee is occasionally exposed to facility elements such as noise, dust, fumes, and odors. This role routinely uses standard office equipment such as computers, phones, photocopiers, filing cabinets, and fax machines. 

EEO Statement 

Crown Bakeries is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to providing a work environment that is free from discrimination and harassment. It is our policy to recruit, hire, train and promote individuals without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or any other characteristic protected by law. We prohibit any such discrimination or harassment in our workplace and strive to foster a diverse and inclusive workforce. This EEO policy applies to all aspects of employment, including recruitment, hiring, training, promotion, compensation, benefits and other terms and conditions of employment.