Research & Development Technician

COMPANY OVERVIEW: 

Ralco is a science and technology company that provides the agriculture industry with natural technologies that help create safe and abundant food. It is our mission to perfect technologies that naturally create an abundant global food supply. We carry out our mission through applied science and research that enhance practical natural technologies for the agriculture industry. In a world filled with technology that people mistrust, creative thinking has driven Ralco to provide trusted alternatives. Our technologies come to life through products in our Ralco brands: Ralco Nutrition, Strong Animals®, Agnition®, and Ralco Show.

OUR MISSION:

Steward our God-given gifts to perfect technologies that enhance the vitality of plants and animals for a safe and abundant food supply.

OUR VALUES:

We do what is right
We serve others and help them succeed
We believe in hard work and a commitment to family
We treat others with dignity and respect

Job Summary:

As a Research and Development Technician you will be asked to assist in executing laboratory-based research, quality testing, and corporate innovation studies which include testing of products. You will be asked to prepare and collect research data and animal samples from swine, poultry, and ruminants, perform analytical testing, record data, manage data and results, and maintain laboratory supplies and equipment.   This position requires a strong commitment to scientific integrity and the ability to work collaboratively within a team environment. 

This job description is not meant to be all inclusive and duties may vary based on departmental and company needs. 

Key Responsibilities:  

• Conduct experiments and collect data 

• Maintain accurate records of experimental procedures, observations, and results. 

• Ensure compliance with safety regulations and maintain a clean and organized laboratory environment, while maintaining appropriate stock of necessary items for the lab. 

• Maintain clean and well stocked workspace 

• Keep detailed logs of all work-related activities 

• Input data into databases 

• Gather and prepare samples for analysis 

• Monitor and observe experiments, recording production and test data for evaluation by research personnel 

• Provide technical support and services for nutritionists and producers working in the field / collaborate with senior researchers 

Qualifications: 

• Basic lab skills: some experience or familiarity with laboratory techniques, and handling laboratory equipment is preferred, ability to observe details at close range 

• Basic animal handling: some experience with handling various livestock (i.e., swine, poultry, and ruminants) is strongly preferred 

• Attention to detail with a high level of accuracy, concentration and precision in conducting experiments and maintaining records 

• Flexibility and availability during business hours and rotating weekend schedule 

• Computer proficiency in MS Office and SharePoint 

• Communication:   strong written and verbal communication skills for collaboration and to effectively convey research findings 

• Team player who can also execute tasks independently 

Job Requirements 

Education: Minimum of a high school diploma or equivalent is required.  Candidates with relevant coursework or associate’s degree in chemistry, biology, microbiology, animal science or equivalent experience are preferred. 

Experience: Laboratory experience as well as chemistry, biology, and animal science knowledge. Comfortable    working with various livestock.  

General: Satisfactorily complete introductory period per company policy.  

Location: This position is at the Jon Knochenmus Center for Innovation in Marshall, MN.  

Working Hours: Weekday work hours include a weekend rotation in the barns to provide animal care and do daily chores. 

Travel: This position requires travel between local Ralco locations.  

Physical: Considerable physical effort as well as stationary position as well.  Confined space entry is not a required job function. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the key work duties. 

The following physical demands are performed routinely: 

Alternating between standing & sitting Near visual acuity 

Driving Peripheral visual acuity 

Far visual acuity Pushing or pulling 

Fine motor manipulation Reaching overhead or below 

Gross motor manipulation Repetitive task performance 

Hearing Sitting 

Keyboarding Speaking 

Kneeling Standing  

Lifting / team lifting up to 100 pounds Walking 

Moving objects  

The following are physical demands performed occasionally: 

Climbing stairs, ladders, scaffolding or ramps 

Crouching 

Using foot or leg controls 

Pay and Benefits: 

• Starting wage:  $20.00  

• Paid Time Off (PTO) and sick leave 

• Employee wellness programs and professional development opportunities 

• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision as well as supplemental insurance