Food Scientist II

Job Purpose

Lead product development projects for the Icing and Fillings team from concept through commercialization with limited supervision. Develop and test formulas and processes for new products, quality improvements, and cost reductions.

Essential Functions

• Plan and execute experiments using established laboratory/pilot lab/plant methodology, ensuring all experiments meet FDA food manufacturing guidelines; keep accurate and detailed records and documentation on lab work and data analysis

• Interpret experiment results and translate them into actionable recommendations and business solutions

• Lead/support the planning, execution, and reporting of plant trials and product validations for new products and reformulations, concentrating on the science of formulation and ingredients

• Lead product development projects from concept through commercialization, effectively managing time and delivering projects on time and in full

• Create and present project contingency plans

• Serve as a subject matter expert to colleagues and management

• Oversee the work of interns and technicians/technologists, providing guidance and assigning daily activities as needed

• Work with Marketing, exploring trends and connections between consumer needs to guide research programs

• Participate in the review of Rise product performance versus competitors

• Bring innovative ideas to support strategic plans and enable R&D to apply this knowledge to assigned projects

• Demonstrate strong teamwork and cross-functional relationships, leveraging those partnerships to innovate, resolve concerns, and meet timelines

• Begin to develop an external technology network and knowledge base with ingredient and equipment vendors, utilizing relationships and knowledge to influence technical decisions

• Maintain ingredient inventory and lot code tracking

• Work with internal resources to quickly communicate needed information for recalls

• Safely operate, clean, and maintain labware and equipment used for testing, adhering to sanitation requirements in the handling and preparation of food products

• Write, review, and issue product, ingredient, and process specifications to support all project work using the Specification system

• Support food safety program, quality standards, and legality of manufactured products

• Perform other job-related duties as assigned

Qualifications (Education, Experience, Competencies)

• Bachelor's degree in food science or related field

• 5+ years in R&D product development, food and/or beverage industry

• Preferred experience in icings and fillings, or in other similar application areas: whipped toppings, ice cream, sugar confections, chocolates, or coatings; or experience with utilizing fats and oil, hydrocolloids, starches, fruits or sugar syrups for the development of high sugar or high fat systems

• Working knowledge of all stages of the product development life cycle and product development methodologies

• Good understanding of manufacturing equipment, and general knowledge of production processes, and capabilities

• Understanding of food ingredient functionality, product formulation development, and modification techniques

• Strong passion for science, creative thinking, and product development

• Excellent cross-functional and peer relationship building skills

• Proficient computer skills including Microsoft Office programs: Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint

• Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills

• Detail oriented with strong problem-solving and analytical skills

• Self-motivated with the ability to work independently, organize and prioritize, show flexibility, and multi-task to execute simultaneous projects and activities to meet objectives and deadlines

• Ability to thrive in a fast-moving and constantly evolving high-growth environment