Job Description

Join the Magic

R&D Pilot and Lab Assistant - UHT

As an R&D Pilot & Lab Assistant, you will support the development of Puratos’ plant‑based solutions by performing hands‑on UHT pilot and lab activities that ensure high product quality. You will help prepare and execute pilot trials, carry out analytical and sensorial testing, and contribute to accurate documentation and data integrity In this role, you ensure that the pilot and lab environment runs safely, efficiently, and according to quality standards. You will work closely with R&D Managers, technicians, and cross‑functional teams to help bring reliable, innovative products to market.

Key Accountabilities

• Prepare and execute lab and pilot trials, including weighing raw materials, operating equipment, taking samples, and ensuring correct cleaning of the lines.
• Perform QC tests such as pH, viscosity, whipping performance, application tests, shelf‑life evaluations, and visual assessments of products like glazes, whippable toppings, and beverages.
• Conduct benchmark tests, sensorial evaluations, and application tests
• Accurately record test data, complete evaluation documents, and support recipe updates in SAP.
• Help maintain the pilot and lab area by following hygiene procedures, executing 5S standards, and ensuring equipment and materials are available.
• Support safety, food safety and hygiene rules (GMP, HACCP, TACCP, VACCP) and report any incidents or deviations.
• Assist in preparing and shipping samples for internal stakeholders, customers, suppliers, or external labs.

Who are we looking for?

• Bachelor’s degree in Food Science/Technology, (Bio)Chemistry, or relevant technical field; first work experience in food production or lab work is a strong asset.
• Someone accurate, hands‑on, and comfortable performing repetitive, detail‑oriented tests in a pilot or industrial environment.
• Strong sense of order, hygiene, and structure, with the ability to follow procedures precisely.
• A team player who communicates clearly and enjoys supporting colleagues from R&D, quality, production, and other departments.
• Able to stay calm under pressure and manage workload in a busy environment with tight timelines.
• Curious and proactive in noticing deviations and suggesting potential causes or improvements.
• Good command of English; Dutch and/or French are a plus.

What you can expect from Puratos?

At Puratos, you will join a supportive and collaborative R&D environment where hands‑on learning and teamwork are central. You will work with modern pilot equipment and be exposed to a wide variety of product categories—from glazes for global bakery chains to innovative plant‑based toppings and beverages. You will receive guidance from experienced R&D Managers while gaining practical expertise in quality control, pilot processing, and food technology. Puratos offers an inclusive workplace where operational talent is valued, learning is encouraged, and your work contributes directly to products enjoyed worldwide.

We at Puratos cultivate an inclusive global workplace that fully embraces diversity and equal opportunities for all. We strive to reflect the richness of our customers, communities and society, accelerating our ability to innovate and deliver on our commitments.

You will be welcomed in a dynamic work environment where passion for innovation, team spirit and continuous improvement are key. You can count on a competitive salary package with attractive benefits such as:

• Meal vouchers (9€/day)
• Group, dental and hospitalization insurance fully paid by Puratos
• 13th and 14th month pay
• Minimum 5 training days per year
• A wide variety of Health & Wellbeing benefits
• Responsibilities and the possibility to take ownership of your work

Watch our corporate movie and feel the Puratos Magic: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XNRsBzuRlNI

Working at Puratos is choosing a Top Employer in Belgium!

Shall we meet soon?