R&D Technician

The Brand

Sundays for Dogs is a venture backed direct-to-consumer brand with the goal to make life easier on the modern dog parent so that they may spend more quality time with their dog.

We enable dog parents to not have to choose between quality and convenience when seeking the world’s best dog food. We are a team dedicated to the mission and consider ourselves skydivers, not plane passengers. We decide fast, fail fast and learn fast. 

The Role

We’re looking for a curious, hands-on R&D Technician to help power the next wave of product innovation at Sundays. Based in our brand-new R&D Center in Cleveland, this role is at the heart of how we create healthier and tastier food for dogs.

As an R&D Technician, you’ll work side-by-side with our Director of R&D on everything from running formulation trials and preparing test batches to analyzing results and keeping projects on track. Your work will directly accelerate how quickly we move ideas from the kitchen bench to the production line.

This is an ideal entry point into the fast-growing pet industry. You’ll gain exposure to:

--The fundamentals of pet food formulation and nutrition science

--The full R&D stage-gate process, from idea to launch

--The art and science of scaling recipes from small-batch kitchen tests to full-scale manufacturing runs

--Daily collaboration with experts in R&D, operations, and supply chain

We’re looking for someone who thrives in a fast-paced, hands-on environment, loves solving problems, and takes pride in building organized systems. In return, you’ll get unmatched training, exposure to industry best practices, and the chance to play a direct role in developing innovative products that improve the health and happiness of dogs everywhere.

• Prepare and execute small-scale and pilot-scale dog food formulations in the R&D Center.
• Accurately weigh, measure, and document all ingredients used in test batches.
• Operate and maintain lab and pilot-scale equipment.
• Collect, record, and report experimental data (processing parameters, batch records, lab results).
• Assist in sensory evaluations, palatability testing, and product quality assessments.
• Manage ingredient inventory and coordinate with procurement for sample sourcing.
• Maintain cleanliness, safety, and compliance standards within the R&D Center.
• Support transition of formulations from bench-scale to pilot and production trials at manufacturing sites.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with R&D, Quality, Marketing and Supply Chain teams to ensure smooth trial execution.

• Bachelor’s degree in Food Science, Animal Science, Biology, Chemistry, or related field preferred; Associate degree or equivalent technical training with relevant lab experience will be considered.
• 1+ year of experience in food science, pet food, or related manufacturing/R&D environment (we consider internships to be really great and relevant experience).
• Strong technical skills in data collection and basic lab practices.
• Familiarity with food safety, HACCP, and GMP practices.
• Ability to work independently, prioritize tasks, and manage multiple projects.
• Passion for pets, nutrition, and innovation in the pet food industry.

• Unlimited PTO – we trust you to take the time you need.
• Equity program – a chance to own part of the company!
• 401k plan with employer match – invest in your future.
• Annual work-from-home stipend – set up your workspace for success.
• Competitive Medical, Dental, Vision plans – company covers 80%.
• Sundays subscription for your pup! – because we care about your furry friends.
• Parental leave & PAWrental leave – support for growing families, both human and pet.
• Discounted pet insurance – keep your pets happy and healthy.