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Research And Development Associate Jobs in Colorado

Associate degree in Food Science, Grain Science, Biology, Chemistry, Culinary Arts, Baking Science ... related R&D environment. * Experience with pilot plant operations, baking applications, or ...

Project Manager - R&D

Loveland, CO · On-site

$84K - $105K/yr

Current Associates will need to apply through the internal career site. Please log into Workday and ... Broad cross-functional experience from R&D to customer facing support roles, supply chain, sourcing ...

Project Manager - R&D

Loveland, CO · On-site

$84K - $105K/yr

Current Associates will need to apply through the internal career site. Please log into Workday and ... Broad cross-functional experience from R&D to customer facing support roles, supply chain, sourcing ...

The R&D Application Technician supports Ardent Mills' Research & Development and Product ... Associate degree in Food Science, Grain Science, Biology, Chemistry, Culinary Arts, Baking Science ...

The R&D Application Technician supports Ardent Mills' Research & Development and Product ... Associate degree in Food Science, Grain Science, Biology, Chemistry, Culinary Arts, Baking Science ...

Research Associate

Boulder, CO · On-site

$76K - $118K/yr

We are seeking a Research Associate to join the team ... The candidate will be responsible for conducting process R&D activities for developing and ...

Research Associate

Boulder, CO · On-site

$76K - $118K/yr

We are seeking a Research Associate to join the team ... The candidate will be responsible for conducting process R&D activities for developing and ...

Research Associate

Denver, CO · On-site

$80K - $95K/yr

When you work at Chatham, we empower you - offering professional development opportunities to help ... As a Research Product Associate at Chatham, you will help build the operating system behind the ...

When you work at Chatham, we empower you - offering professional development opportunities to help ... As a Research Product Associate at Chatham, you will help build the operating system behind the ...

Showing results 21-40

Research And Development Associate information

See Colorado salary details

$30.5K

$56.2K

$85.2K

How much do research and development associate jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for research and development associate in Colorado is $56,170.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $44,700.00 and $63,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a research and development associate?

Research and Development (R&D) Associates are professionals who support the creation and improvement of products, services, or processes within an organization. They typically conduct experiments, analyze data, and collaborate with scientists, engineers, or product managers to innovate and solve technical challenges. R&D Associates play a vital role in helping companies remain competitive by driving new ideas from concept to reality. Their work often involves staying up-to-date with the latest industry trends and scientific advancements.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a research and development associate?

To thrive as a Research and Development Associate, you need a strong background in scientific research, data analysis, and typically a relevant degree such as in chemistry, biology, or engineering. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, statistical software, and research documentation systems is commonly required. Creativity, problem-solving, and teamwork are standout soft skills for this role. These skills and qualifications are essential for driving innovation, ensuring accurate results, and effectively collaborating on new product or process development.

What are some common challenges research and development associates face when transitioning from academia to industry roles?

Research and Development Associates often encounter challenges when shifting from academia to industry, such as adapting to faster-paced project timelines, balancing multiple concurrent projects, and focusing on practical, commercially viable solutions rather than purely theoretical research. Collaboration with cross-functional teams—like marketing, production, and quality assurance—is also more prevalent, requiring strong communication and project management skills. Embracing a results-driven approach and learning to effectively communicate findings to both technical and non-technical stakeholders are key to success in this role.

What is the difference between Research And Development Associate vs Quality Control Technician?

AspectResearch And Development AssociateQuality Control Technician
CredentialsBachelor's degree in science or engineeringBachelor's degree in science or related field
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, R&D departments, product development teamsManufacturing facilities, labs, quality assurance departments
Employer & Industry UsagePharmaceuticals, consumer goods, biotech companiesFood production, pharmaceuticals, manufacturing plants
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Research And Development Associates focus on creating and improving products through experimentation and innovation, working mainly in labs and development teams. Quality Control Technicians primarily ensure product quality by testing and inspecting products during manufacturing. While both roles require scientific knowledge and lab skills, R&D Associates are more involved in development, whereas QC Technicians focus on quality assurance during production.

What are the most commonly searched types of Research And Development jobs in Colorado?

The most popular types of Research And Development jobs in Colorado are:

What are popular job titles related to Research And Development Associate jobs in Colorado?

For Research And Development Associate jobs in Colorado, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Research And Development Associate jobs in Colorado look for?

The top searched job categories for Research And Development Associate jobs in Colorado are:

What cities in Colorado are hiring for Research And Development Associate jobs?

Cities in Colorado with the most Research And Development Associate job openings:

Infographic showing various Research And Development Associate job openings in Colorado as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,170 per year, or $27 per hour.

R&D Application Technician

Ardent Mills

Denver, CO • On-site

Full-time

Posted 22 days ago


Ardent Mills rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 21 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

153rd of 443 rated food and drinks producers


Job description

Join Us Today
The R&D Application Technician supports 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.
Your Responsibilities
  • Work safely in laboratory, pilot plant, and bakery environments while adhering to all Ardent Mills Food Safety and EH&S policies.
  • 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.

Essential Skills and Experience
  • High school diploma or equivalent required.
  • Associate degree in Food Science, Grain Science, Biology, Chemistry, Culinary Arts, Baking Science, Engineering Technology, or a related technical field preferred.
  • Demonstrated knowledge of laboratory practices, product development processes, and scientific methodology.
  • Understanding of ingredient functionality and food application testing, preferably within grain-based products.
  • 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.
  • 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.

Good to Have
  • Minimum of 2 years of experience in food product development, application testing, bakery science, grain science, or a related R&D environment.
  • Experience with pilot plant operations, baking applications, or ingredient functionality testing.
  • Knowledge of cereal grains, flour functionality, and bakery product development.
  • Experience supporting customer-facing technical projects or innovation programs.

Physical Requirements and Working Conditions (with or without reasonable accommodation)
  • 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.
  • 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.

Other Considerations
  • Willingness to travel up to 10% of the time.
  • This is a full-time, in-office position requiring on-site attendance five days per week.

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