Inventory and Sample Coordinator

Nutreco is a leading global animal nutrition company offering solutions that go beyond nutrition. We support our customers to produce more feed in a sustainable way to feed the growing population.

In 2021, Nutreco established the Nutreco Exploration (NutEx) group who develops novel and proprietary ultra-specialty ingredients and empowers development of plant based innovative functional feeds. For this phytotechnology program, Nutreco founded a Competence Center for Medicinal Plant Solutions (Nutreco Garden of the Future = NuGaFu). We are currently seeking a highly organized and detail-oriented Sample Coordinator to join the Discovery Team at NuGaFu.

Nutreco’s Garden of the Future is seeking a highly organized and proactive Inventory Coordinator to manage the tracking, organization, and integrity of our plant and bacteria sample collections. This pivotal role ensures sample accessibility, documentation, and storage reliability of critical components of our scientific discovery process.

The ideal candidate will bring experience in inventory and material coordination, along with a strong understanding of operational best practices. In addition to day-to-day management, the Inventory Coordinator will evaluate and help implement software solutions to improve sample tracking, traceability, and compliance.

Key Responsibilities

Sample Handling & Inventory Management

• Oversee the intake, labeling, documentation, and preparation of plant and postbiotic samples.

• Maintain an up-to-date and accurate database of all samples, including storage conditions, status, and traceability.

• Monitor and manage sample withdrawals, transfers, and returns across teams.

Cross-Functional Communication

• Serve as the central point of contact between the Discovery and Laboratory Teams to ensure seamless coordination and transparency.

• Support scientists and technicians with timely sample access and tracking.

Systems & Process Optimization

• Evaluate and recommend sample management software to enhance digital tracking, documentation, and compliance.

• Refine and implement standard operating procedures (SOPs) for material handling and inventory workflows.

Logistics & Compliance

• Coordinate international shipments to collaborators and CROs, ensuring proper documentation and regulatory compliance.

• Ensure adherence to internal quality standards and external regulations for sample storage, handling, and usage.

Equipment & Facility Oversight

• Manage the maintenance and organization of storage infrastructure, including freezers, drying chambers, and other systems essential for sample preservation.

Qualifications & Skills

• Higher education degree or equivalent in a relevant field.

• Minimum 3 years of experience in inventory or sample management.

• Proficiency in inventory tracking systems, data management, and digital tools.

• Experience in life sciences or knowledge of plant biology is an advantage.

• Strong organizational skills with attention to detail and documentation.

• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced, research-driven environment.

• Professional proficiency in English; German is a plus.

What We Offer

• A full-time position (40 hours/week) within a dynamic, innovative, and multidisciplinary research environment.

• A highly motivated and collaborative team working at the intersection of science and sustainable innovation.

• Competitive remuneration package, including: 25 vacation days with flexible buy/sell options, strong pension scheme, opportunities for professional growth and personal development

We're looking for a hands-on, detail-oriented team player who is eager to contribute to shaping the future of sustainable nutrition through scientific discovery. If this sounds like you, we’d love to hear from you.