Food Scientist

Job Description

The Scientist, R&D will be joining a private equity start-up business with iconic brands, strong retail presence, and outstanding manufacturing capabilities. With moderate supervision, the Scientist leads product development projects from concept through commercialization. The Scientist is responsible for developing and testing formulas and processes for new products, quality improvements, and cost reductions with guidance from the R&D Director and/or Scientist. The company plans to aggressively increase the pace of innovation in the baking, ingredients, and breakfast categories, where there is ample opportunity for disruption and differentiation. The role will be based in the Toledo, Ohio manufacturing facility, where a fully operational pilot plant is located.

Hours are 1st shift, M-F.

Responsibilities

• Provide technical input throughout all phases of New Product Development (concept through commercialization).
• Lead product development projects from concept through commercialization.
• Lead and support the planning, execution, and reporting of plant trials and product validations for new products and reformulations.
• Work with Marketing and partner with Operations for commercial execution against all new products.
• Seek, evaluate, and utilize technical information to achieve objectives.
• Recommend and implement product quality improvements based on quantitative insights.
• Investigate and implement cost reduction initiatives.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with Marketing, Sales, Supply Chain, Finance, and Operations.
• Maintain laboratory ingredient inventories and keep accurate records on lab work and data analysis.
• Safely operate, clean, and maintain lab-ware and equipment while adhering to GMPs in the handling and preparation of food products.
• Perform other duties and projects as assigned.
• Travel as requested, less than 20%.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• 3-5 years of food R&D experience, with a preference for experience in baking categories.
• Understanding of flours and grains.
• Understanding of grain-based products, chemical leavening, yeast leavening, and ingredient functionality.
• Understanding of carbohydrate chemistry and fat/oil chemistry.
• Bachelor’s Degree in Food Science, Engineering, or related.
• Preferred: Master’s Degree in Food Science, Engineering, or Business.
• Displays even temperament, ethical values, and good teamwork within R&D and cross-functionally.
• Strong communication skills.
• Great attitude and drive with the ability to roll up sleeves and get things done.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment and handle moderate degrees of ambiguity.
• Passion for food and innovation.

Work Environment

The position will be based in the lab for the majority of the time, with occasional work in the pilot plant. The role requires adherence to GMPs in the handling and preparation of food products and involves collaboration with various departments. The work environment is dynamic and fast-paced, encouraging innovation and hands-on problem solving.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $25.00 - $35.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:

• Medical, dental & vision
• Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
• 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
• Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
• Short and long-term disability
• Health Spending Account (HSA)
• Transportation benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Toledo,OH.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Feb 28, 2025.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 30,000 consultants and more than 4,500 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500.

Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

At Actalent, diversity and inclusion are a bridge towards the equity and success of our people. DE&I are embedded into our culture through:

• Hiring diverse talent
• Maintaining an inclusive environment through persistent self-reflection
• Building a culture of care, engagement, and recognition with clear outcomes
• Ensuring growth opportunities for our people

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.

Salary : $25 - $35