Lab Technician

Ultra PouchesLexington, KentuckyOn-siteFull-timeJunior, 1–2 yearsListed 1 hour ago

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About this role

About ULTRA

ULTRA is already the #1 brand of nicotine-free pouches in the world and we only launched one year ago—we’re just getting started. Our mission is to build the category-defining brand of functional pouches for people who want enhanced performance without the crash, addiction, or long-term downsides. ULTRA does not just make a pouch that is somewhat “better for you” than Zyn. We make functional performance products that are actively good for you.

The market shift is massive: nicotine pouch sales are up 3,000% since 2019 and projected to reach $20B by 2026. Consumers are adopting the pouch form factor at scale, and many are now seeking nicotine-free functional benefits in a pouch. Ultra is positioned to lead that wave.

Backed by some of the best investors, founders and athletes in the world, including:

- CAVU Consumer Partners (Once Upon A Farm, Poppi, Farmer’s Dog, Oatly, Vital Proteins, Whoop, Recess)
- Left Lane Capital (Blank Street, Olipop, Holy)
- Sugar Capital (Grüns, Feastables, Lucky Energy)
- Athletes & Creators

Joe Burrow, Dak Prescott, Henrik Lundqvist, Jakob Chychrun + more

- Founders & Operators

Chad Janis (Grüns), Harpreet Singh (Oura Ring), Jeff Raider (Harry’s), Vinay Menda (Blank Street), + more

Position Summary

The Lab Technician runs the day-to-day testing that keeps every Ultra Pouches batch consistent, safe and on spec. You’ll prepare samples, run routine analyses on raw materials, in-process and finished pouches, keep accurate records, and help the R&D team move new formulations from bench trials to production.

Key responsibilities

- Prepare samples and run routine tests on raw materials, in-process blends and finished pouches (e.g. moisture, pH, weight and fill uniformity, active ingredient content)
- Operate, calibrate and maintain lab instruments such as analytical balances, pH and moisture meters, small scale mixers, sample pouch machine, and HPLC
- Organize flavor library and maintain lab inventory
- Support R&D with bench-scale formulation trials, flavor and stability studies, and shelf-life sampling
- Keep retain samples, reagents and standards labeled, logged and in date
- Maintain a clean, organized and safe lab; manage chemical inventory, waste disposal and SDS records
- Help draft and revise SOPs

Required qualifications

- Associate’s or bachelor’s degree in chemistry, biology, food science or a related field, or equivalent lab experience
- Comfortable with basic lab techniques: weighing, dilutions, pipetting, titration and sample prep
- Careful record-keeping and strong attention to detail
- Working knowledge of lab safety, chemical handling and SDS
- Proficient with Excel or Google Sheets for logging and basic calculations

Preferred qualifications

- Experience in food, supplement, nutraceutical or consumer packaged goods manufacturing
- 1+ year of hands-on work in an analytical, QC or R&D lab
- Familiarity with GMP (21 CFR 111 or 117) and quality systems
- Hands-on HPLC or GC experience
- Experience with stability programs or sensory testing

Equal Employer Opportunity

Ultra is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace. We value a diverse workforce and an inclusive culture. We encourage applications from all qualified individuals regardless of race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, national origin, marital status, disability, or veteran status.

We comply with all applicable employment laws, including the NYC Fair Chance Act, and provide reasonable accommodations as required by law.