R&D Scientist I

Our Research and Development department is on the forefront of product development and innovation. It is easy to be dedicated when you're a part of something much bigger than yourself. We've got an insatiable appetite for making a difference. The ideal Scientist I candidate will have an integral role in leading the product development of our next wave product innovations, while also lending technical support to our growing base business. We are looking for a candidate with a strong food science foundation, and a demonstrated expertise in product innovation, to help La Colombe advance its' mission of making healthy and delicious coffee beverages.

The responsibilities of this position include:

• Execute research and development plans and strategies for product development in support of company objectives

• Design and execute experiments based on project objectives, excellent record keeping, data collection and analysis and preparing project summaries

• Plan and carry out development work in lab and pilot scale; design, develop, and lead tests to qualify new products and to support changes to existing products

• Conduct analytical measurements like, pH, viscosity, density, able to design and execute shelf life studies, brix, total solids etc.

• Manage technical development projects focusing on product development, process, and product care to help La Colombe improve and launch more innovative food and beverage products

• Lead and document development projects all the way from conceptualization to commercialization - this includes budget and target within certain time constraints

• Communicate project requirements and recommendations as well as status to internal customers and external stake holders

• Lead, assist, and work directly with plant processing and production personnel to ensure trial runs and start-up operations are properly performed

• Follow La Colombe's safety procedures and Good Manufacturing procedures and practices

Qualifications

The requirements of this position include:

• Minimum B.S. Food Science or related degree. Advanced degree strongly preferred

• 1-3 years of food industry experience required, dairy and/or non-dairy is preferred

• Extensive ingredient (stabilizers & fortification), flavor development, and product stability knowledge

• Background in process and product development and commercialization of food processes is required. Dairy or Dairy Alternative processing would be a big bonus. Proven track record of leading product development projects including timeline development / management, testing / trials, operational launch and scale

• Familiarity with basic research tools and statistical analysis

• Comfortable with ambiguity and are energized by the process of building something from the ground up

• Innate curiosity for understanding complex food systems from a physical and chemical perspective

• Maintain clean & safe manufacturing environment within all facilities

• Excellent written and verbal communication

• Must be a self-starter able to work in a fast-paced environment and handle multiple projects/tasks at any given time

• Willingness to travel (10-20%)