Food Scientist - Beverage/Thermal Processing
Northern, IL (Rockford area)
Our client is a well-respected Food and Beverage Manufacturer of private label products throughout North America. Due to continued growth, they are adding two new FOOD SCIENTISTS to their R&D team based in Northern, IL. The Food Scientist and Senior Food Scientist will formulate all types of beverages, drinks milk/dairy-based beverages, cheese products, snacks and thermal processed foods etc. Its diverse product line with approx.. 450M in sales. The Food Scientist will assist in the management of the development from prototype through commercialization. The R&D Scientist will assist in developing customer specifications, nutrition facts panels, ingredient statements for products, and ensure compliance with all FDA standards of identity and label-related claims. Builds relationships with customers and works across functions to execute production trials and testing. Provides technical support to Operations and customers, as needed.
Responsibilities

• Develop new products, optimize existing products, and adapt customer formulas.
• Produce benchtop samples and evaluate for shipment to customers.
• Set up formulas and processes for plant trials and production.
• Work cross-functionally with Operations, Procurement, and Quality to conduct pilot and production trials for customer and thermal process testing.
• Provide timely and appropriate product information to support customer requirements.
• Create product specifications, ingredient statements, and Nutrition Facts panels, assuring products meet appropriate FDA/USDA requirements for shelf-stable products.
• Leverage outside resources to recommend new technology platforms to support new beverage product development.
• Maintain beverage lab and pilot plant, overseeing ingredient inventories, supplies, equipment cleaning & maintenance.
• Provide technical support and leadership to Operations.
• Learn and develop knowledge of Companies thermal processing procedures.
• Assist with thermal processing studies in production retorts, under the direction of management and Process Authority.
• Ensure documentation of formulas and product parameters to meet LACF requirements.

Requirements

• Must have a minimum B.S. in Food Science, Nutrition, or a related field. Masters preferred in Dairy Science
• Must have at least 2-10 years of hands-on bench top R&D experience in new product development, applications and commercialization experience
• Prefer understanding of emulsions, milk & whey proteins, food safety, and allergens
• Prefer retort/thermal processing knowledge/experience desired
• Must have the ability to discriminate flavors
• Demonstrates initiative and ability to meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment
• Excellent relationship skills and ability to work directly with customers and sales
• Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills (written and verbal)
• Demonstrated ability to handle multiple projects simultaneously
• Excellent project management and organizational skills
• Ability to maintain and operate laboratory and pilot equipment
• Ability to work in a production environment and support production trials in a 24/7 operation
• Good troubleshooting and problem-solving skills
• Strong in Microsoft Excel and navigating web-based systems

In return, they can offer a competitive base, bonus, relocation and ample opportunity for career advancement. Send resume to: jobs@foodemployment.com or call 239-839-2914