RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT SPECIALIST

Can you cut it with the industry leaders in meat portioning and cooking? We’re always looking for sharp minds and sure hands to join our family business. We are committed to maintaining a safe, diverse, and welcoming workplace for all.

Job Title: Research & Development Specialist

FLSA Status: Exempt

Department: Quality (R&D)

SUMMARY:

The Research & Development Specialist is responsible for Research & Development (R&D) projects and product development activities. This position works closely with the Operations teams and the Business Development team. Directly responsible for formulation, product development, planning and commercialization of new products from prototyping to pilot and creation. The Research & Development Specialist must possess project management skills and must be able to work with individuals of all levels across the organization. This R&D Specialist will be responsible for presenting technical subjects/science to others, including customers and executive leadership.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Manage all activities and set timelines for each project assigned to within the R&D team.

• Coordinate product development activities, test runs and industrial scale up process with team members, internal and external suppliers, and outside professionals to ensure project outputs meet users’ needs as well as applicable regulatory requirements.

• Develop product prototypes for each trial and ensure objectives are met by collecting prototype samples for review and data for product/process analysis.

• Develop formulations and processes while considering requirements of other company and industry functions such as label claims, operation feasibility, and regulatory needs.

• Assist in providing technical support to other functional areas by assessing problems and providing efficient solutions.

• Update project databases and reports tracking, meeting project schedules, plans, and budgets.

• Write and review protocols, reports and data to complete SOPs, product specifications, labeling and regulatory requirements.

• Evaluate and approve ingredients and suppliers.

• Participate in all team activities including innovation, competitive analysis, product reviews, tastings, and product testing.

EDUCATION:

• Bachelor’s degree in Animal Science, Food Science, Biochemistry, or related technical field required.

WORK EXPERIENCE / KNOWLEDGE:

• 1 - 3 years’ professional work experience in the food industry in a relevant technical role (with bachelor’s degree)

• No prior experience required with a Master’s degree in Animal Science/Food Science, Biochemistry, or related technical field.

• Fundamental knowledge of food science, acceptable level of knowledge of meat science technology, chemical analysis, and biochemistry of ingredients.

• Ability to work in a cross-functional team environment

• Ability to analyze and use technical data/ resources; communicate and solve technical issues.

• Strong analytical skills and detail oriented

• Strong organizational skills and ability to effectively prioritize

• Excellent oral and written communication skills

SKILLS / OTHER PERSONAL ATTRIBUTES REQUIRED:

• Innovative thinker, creative, willing to challenge established methods and beliefs.

• Desire and ability to lead multiple projects at various stages of feasibility and development.

• Highly collaborative and able to build connections.

• Excellent communication, including written, verbal and listening skills.

• Influencing and problem-solving skills.

OTHER QUALIFICATIONS:

Bilingual (English/Spanish) preferred.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job.

Function & Amount of Time

• Stand - 1/3 to 2/3

• Walk - 1/3 to 2/3

• Sit - 1/3 to 2/3

• Use hands to finger, handle or feel - 1/3 to 2/3

• Reach with hands and arms - 1/3 to 2/3

• Climb or balance - None

• Stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl - Under 1/3

This job requires that weight be lifted or force be exerted as reflected below.

Function & Amount of Time

• Up to 10 pounds - Over 2/3

• Up to 25 pounds - Over 2/3

• Up to 50 pounds - 1/3 to 2/3

• Up to 100 pounds - Under 1/3

• More than 100 pounds - Under 1/3

WORK ENVIRONMENT:

PRODUCTION FLOOR: Cold Temperature: <35 F Cooler <0 F Freezer

While performing the duties of the job, the employee is regularly exposed to wet and/or humid conditions, moving, mechanical parts, and extreme cold temperature. The noise level in the work environment is moderate.

TRAVEL:

Must be open to travel 10 - 30% of time

• The ability to lift, carry or otherwise move objects of up to 20 pounds is necessary.

• Normally works a regular schedule of hours, however hours may vary depending on the project or assignment.

We are people powered! If you want to build strong relationships, grow professionally and personally, and produce quality, you'll enjoy your career with us!