R&D Support Specialist - Emphasis on Specification Writing

Overview

We are seeking a highly organized and detail-oriented R&D Support Specialist with strong expertise in specification writing. This role will provide essential administrative and technical support to R&D developers, enabling them to focus on product innovation and development. A key responsibility will be the meticulous review, updating, and creation of product specifications.

Responsibilities:

• Specification Management (Critical):
  • Primary focus: Review and update existing product specifications for accuracy, consistency, and compliance.
  • Develop and write new, detailed product specifications based on developer requirements, ensuring adherence to strict quality standards and regulatory guidelines.
  • Maintain and manage specification documentation, ensuring proper version control and accessibility.
  • Translate technical information into clear, concise, and accurate specifications.
  • Collaborate with developers to define and refine critical product attributes (e.g., pea size, density, moisture, color, viscosity).
• Administrative Support:
  • Order and manage ingredients and supplies for R&D trials.
  • Organize and maintain files and documents within SharePoint.
  • Assist with the organization and management of product samples.
  • Coordinate and set up product reviews and related activities.
  • Respond to product inquiries from the website, providing accurate and timely information.
• Formulation Software (Desired):
  • Utilize formulation software (preferably Concept 5 or similar) to assist in product development.
  • Input and manage product formulations and related data.
• Collaboration:
  • Work closely with R&D developers to support their projects and tasks.
  • Collaborate with other departments as needed to ensure efficient project execution.

Qualifications:

• Essential:
  • Proven and demonstrable experience in writing and managing product specifications, particularly within the food or pet food industry. This is a core requirement.
  • Proven experience in administrative support roles.
  • Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook).  
• Desired:
  • Experience with formulation software (Concept 5 or similar).
  • Familiarity with PLM (Product Lifecycle Management) systems.
  • Experience within the pet food industry.
• Skills:
  • Exceptional written communication skills, with the ability to create clear, precise specifications.
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
  • Strong problem-solving and analytical skills.  
  • Ability to adapt to changing priorities.

Work Environment:

• Hybrid work model with the expectation of on-site presence 1-2 times per week, as needed.
• Remote work may be considered for candidates with particularly strong specification writing and/or formulation software experience.

The target hiring compensation range for this role is $51.00 to $56.00/hr. Compensation is based on several factors including, but not limited to education, relevant work experience, relevant certifications, and location.

About Aquent Talent:

Aquent Talent connects the best talent in marketing, creative, and design with the world’s biggest brands.

Our eligible talent get access to amazing benefits like subsidized health, vision, and dental plans, paid sick leave, and retirement plans with a match. We also offer free online training through Aquent Gymnasium. More information on our awesome benefits! 

Aquent is an equal-opportunity employer. We evaluate qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, and other legally protected characteristics. We’re about creating an inclusive environment—one where different backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives are valued, and everyone can contribute, grow their careers, and thrive.