Description
# Research Assistant #
**Position Snapshot**
Location: Orbe, Switzerland
Company: Nestlé Product Technology Centre Coffee
Act. Rate: Full-Time, 100%
Type of contract: Permanent contract
Ideal start date: 01.09.2025
**Position Summary **
The Nestlé Product Technology Centre Coffee (NPTC Coffee) is the leading R&D organization that discovers, develops and deploys coffee and beverage products and technologies for in-home and out-of-home consumption.
It consists of units in Konolfingen (CH), Marysville (USA), Orbe (CH) and Singapore and provides new products and processes to all Nestlé markets worldwide.
Our mission - to delight the consumer wherever, whenever, however by delivering moments of genuine pleasure and indulgence - drives the need for us to attract, select and develop the right people for the right jobs throughout the value chain of our business.
As a **Research Assistant** in Chemistry laboratory, you will support and develop technical and scientific activities, apply goal alignment and safety principles as well as drive advanced analytics. This position will focus specifically **on the aroma stream of the chemistry group,** with a key role to maintain GC-MS instruments and develop analytical methods using this technology.
Your role will be instrumental in optimizing laboratory operations and maintaining a competitive edge through innovative methods. You will also contribute to resource management by actively prioritizing analytical requests and aligning team capabilities with project timelines in close collaboration with the S&T team.
**A day-to-day life in this position**
* Collaborate with Science and Technology as well as cross-functional teams, external partners, and suppliers to propose new ideas, activities, and methods aligned with strategy roadmaps
* Test and develop new methods using GC-MS or LC-MS instruments.
* Support projects through specific analysis
* Develop and incorporate key Nestlé Initiatives and improvement projects into team activities, such as 5S, laboratory LIMS, sustainability initiatives and develop user-friendly digital tools for result interpretation.
* Coach technicians in method development, troubleshooting of equipment and presentations
* Optimize workflows by anticipating needs and adjusting priorities to ensure smooth lab execution
* Ensure compliance with Good Laboratory Practices
* Stay updated on industry trends and best practices to drive innovation in laboratory operations
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**What will make you successful**
* Master's degree in chemistry, biochemistry, or related fields
* Successful experience of at least 5 years in R&D laboratory, is a plus
* Deep understanding of aroma and taste principles, including sensory evaluation techniques, flavor profiling, and aroma analysis, as well as in-depth knowledge of analytics and method validation
* Proficiency in analytical chemistry techniques, including gas chromatography, liquid chromatography, mass spectrometry, extractions, with practical hands-on experience
* Strong understanding and adherence to Good Laboratory Practices, compliance, quality, and safety protocols
* Track record of continuous improvement in technical and digital aspects, including scouting for cutting-edge instruments
* Proven ability to lead cross-functional collaboration, communicate effectively across levels, and manage priorities in a dynamic environment
* Fluent in both written and spoken English and French
At Nestlé, we want to help shape a better and healthier world, inspire people to live healthier lives and deliver impact at a scale and pace that makes a difference. We do this by fostering a diverse, friendly, supportive, and collaborative environment, that creates positive disruption, embraces innovation, and empowers people and teams to win.
We aim to hire friendly, respectful, inspiring people who care about the people-s lives that we touch every single day.
Be a force for good. Join Nestlé and visit us on www.nestle.com.
Orbe, CH