Sr. Food Scientist

Job Description

POSITION: SENIOR FOOD SCIENTIST

DEPARTMENT: Research & Development

REPORTS TO: R&D Manager or higher

Position Description and Purpose: Founded in 1923 and headquartered in Grand Rapids, Michigan, Roskam Foods is a leading contract manufacturer that partners with world-renowned food brands, retailers, and food service providers to produce a myriad of frozen, refrigerated and shelf-stable products. We’re a scaled, diversified operation with over 2 million square feet of manufacturing and 50 production lines across 8 facilities in the U.S. and Canada. We believe in the power of purpose-driven leadership to generate value for all. And we’re on a mission to optimize the potential of our people and brands. We are passionate about multiplying possibilities for our employees and our partners.

Position Summary

Under moderate supervision, the Senior Food Scientist provides technical expertise and innovative solutions throughout the product development process, from concept to commercialization. This role involves leading and collaborating with cross-functional teams to deliver timely, cost-effective innovations, product improvements, and cost savings, driving the company's growth.

Essential Job Functions / Responsibilities

• Project Management: Develop project plans and lead cross-departmental teams to ensure successful project execution.
• Customer Account Management: Effectively manage customer accounts to meet their needs and objectives.
• New Product Development: Conduct bench-top development using scientific techniques to achieve consumer and customer goals.
• Formulation and Process Optimization: Initiate and lead projects focused on formulation and process enhancements.
• Manufacturing Integration: Demonstrate a proven ability to translate concepts into products that are friendly to manufacturing processes.
• Food Safety Expertise: Apply sound understanding of formulation and process design principles to ensure safe, high-quality food production (GMPs, SQF, HACCP).
• Ingredient Sourcing: Identify, evaluate, and obtain necessary approvals for new and alternative ingredients and suppliers.
• Trial Execution: Conduct pilot plant and production line trials to validate product formulations.
• Production Support: Provide support during production start-ups to ensure smooth transitions.
• Specification Development: Develop and manage specifications and process parameters using electronic systems and templates.
• Label Accuracy Review: Review labels to ensure accuracy of technical information.
• Testing and Evaluation: Conduct shelf-life testing and sensory evaluations to assess product quality.
• Productivity Initiatives: Initiate projects aimed at improving productivity and reducing waste.
• Pricing Coordination: Coordinate pricing requests for new product developments and formula revisions, ensuring cost sheet accuracy.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Support sales, marketing, and customers in generating new product ideas.
• Leadership in Customer Engagement: Lead internal and external customer meetings and product presentations.
• Competitive Analysis: Evaluate relevant competitive products to inform development strategies.
• Regulatory Awareness: Maintain awareness of current FDA regulations related to the food processing industry.
• Market Trend Monitoring: Stay informed about current market trends through participation in food shows, sales meetings, technical presentations, and supplier partnerships; recommend new products or ingredients.
• Challenge Evaluation: Assess the impact of product and process challenges and identify solutions and opportunities for improvement or competitive advantage.
• Nutritional Information Creation: Create ingredient statements and nutrition facts panels as needed.
• Operations Collaboration: Work with operations and finance to establish standards, yields, and throughputs for products.
• Mentorship: Assist in training Research and Development personnel, acting as a mentor for less experienced team members.
• Team Leadership: Lead team members in project tasks, ensuring collaboration and effective execution.
• Project Status Reporting: Keep supervisors informed of project status and next steps.
  
  

Knowledge, Skills, And Abilities

• Technical expertise across multiple product areas.
• Creative problem-solving skills and sound judgment with a strong orientation toward innovation.
• Strong analytical, organizational, and multi-tasking abilities; adept at collaborating with all levels and functions.
• Mature, enthusiastic, and motivated contributor with a detail-oriented mindset.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office; knowledge of Genesis R&D software preferred.
• Profit-oriented with the ability to establish credibility and make decisive decisions.
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds occasionally and work in cold, hot, and wet conditions.
• Willingness to travel as needed.
  
  

Education/Experience

• Bachelor’s degree or higher in Food Science, Chemistry, Biology, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of experience and training that provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities.
• 5 years of relevant food industry experience.
• Previous experience in food manufacturing is preferred.
• Experience in a laboratory setting demonstrating good laboratory practices.
  
  

Roskam Foods offers a competitive compensation package including medical, dental, and vision benefits, life and disability insurance, and a 401K plan with company match.

We are excited to introduce you to all that Roskam has to offer—from the many valuable benefits to programs that support your lifestyle needs and opportunities for professional development. Roskam is an equal opportunity employer.

AAP/EEO Statement

Roskam Foods is a recognized veteran-friendly and equal opportunity employer.

We are excited to introduce you to all that Roskam has to offer—from the many valuable benefits to programs that support your lifestyle needs and opportunities for professional development. Roskam is an equal opportunity employer.