Nutritionist

Job Description:

The Nutritionist plays a critical role in the development and formulation of high-quality pet food products. This position requires a strong understanding of animal nutrition, ingredient science, and regulatory requirements. The Nutritionist will collaborate with a cross-functional team to ensure the nutritional adequacy and palatability of pet foods while meeting company objectives for quality, safety, and cost-effectiveness.

DESCRIPTION OF ESSENTIAL DUTIES:

• Develop and formulate pet food recipes for dogs and cats, considering factors such as life stage, breed, and health needs.
• Conduct nutritional assessments and analyses of raw materials and finished products.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant nutritional and regulatory standards (e.g., AAFCO, FEDIAF).
• Research and evaluate new ingredients and technologies for potential use in pet food.
• Conduct palatability trials and consumer research to assess the acceptability of new formulations.
• Maintain accurate records of all research and development activities.
• Stay abreast of the latest scientific advancements in animal nutrition and pet food technology.
• Collaborate with other departments, such as marketing, production, and quality control, to ensure successful product launches.
• May assist with the creation of technical documents, such as ingredient specifications and nutritional labeling.
• May provide technical support to customers and sales teams on pet nutrition and product information.

COMPETENCIES AND SKILLS

• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.

QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS: (To perform this job successfully, and individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required).

• Master's degree in Animal Science, Nutrition, or a related field required; Ph.D. preferred.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in pet food formulation or related field.
• Strong knowledge of animal nutrition, including macronutrients, micronutrients, and digestibility.
• Proficiency in using nutritional software and formulating diets.
• Experience with AAFCO feeding trials and data analysis.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Detail-oriented and organized with strong record-keeping skills.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS: (The physical demands described here are representatives of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential function. The phrases “occasionally,” “regularly,” and “frequently” correspond to the following definitions: “occasionally” means up to 25% of working time, “regularly” means between 26 and 75% of working time, and “frequently” means 76% and more of working time.)

• The position may require light lifting, walking within an industrial setting, maintaining concentration during meetings, teleconferencing, and sitting for extended periods of time, and travel by airplane, car or ride share as necessary.

WORK ENVIRONMENT: (The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions).

• Occasional extended work hours may be required. Moderate noise where PPE is required. The job is performed under a generally hazard free environment.
• Position may also be eligible as “work from home” and must be able to sustain a highspeed stable internet connection. Home office must be secured from unauthorized visitors.

Alphia is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.