Job Description

Job Title: Food Research and Development Scientist

Job Overview:

We are seeking a highly skilled and motivated Food Research and Development Scientist to join our team. This role will focus on innovating and improving food products, from initial concept development through to production. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in food science, along with experience in formulating and testing new food products, ensuring they meet quality standards and regulatory requirements.

Key Responsibilities:

• Product Development : Lead the creation and development of new food products, including researching ingredients, formulations, and packaging.
  
• Formulation : Create new formulas, match existing formulas, or enhance existing formulas with the insights of the customer and sales team using formulation software such as FORMULATOR, GENESIS, or alike.
  
• Improvement of Existing Products : Analyze current products and processes to identify opportunities for enhancements in taste, texture, nutrition, or cost-efficiency.
  
• Sensory Testing : Conduct sensory evaluations (taste, smell, appearance, etc.) and gather consumer feedback to refine products.
  
• Quality Control : Work closely with quality assurance and production teams to ensure food products meet safety and regulatory standards.
  
• Ingredient Sourcing : Research and source new ingredients and food technologies that align with the company’s goals, focusing on sustainability, nutrition, and cost.
  
• Collaboration : Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including marketing, production, sales, and regulatory affairs, to bring products to market.
  
• Documentation & Reporting : Maintain detailed records of all product development processes, including formulations, testing results, and product specifications.
  
• Regulatory Compliance : Ensure all products meet food safety regulations and industry standards (e.g., FDA, USDA, EFSA).
  
• Trend Analysis : Stay updated on emerging food trends, consumer preferences, and scientific advancements in food technology.
  

Requirements

Required Qualifications:

• Education : Bachelor's or Master’s degree in Food Science, Food Technology, Chemistry, or a related field.
  
• Experience : Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in food product development or food science research.
  
• Skills :
  
• Strong knowledge of food chemistry, microbiology, and nutrition.
  
• Proficiency with laboratory equipment and food testing methods.
  
• Familiarity with food safety regulations and quality control processes.
  
• Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
  
• Excellent communication and teamwork abilities.
  
• Certifications : Any certifications in food safety or related fields are a plus (e.g., HACCP, ISO 22000).
  

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with new food technologies such as plant-based foods, alternative proteins, or functional ingredients.
  
• Background in sensory analysis or consumer testing.
  
• Experience with food manufacturing processes and scaling up recipes for mass production.
  

Work Environment:

• The position may require working in both laboratory and production environments.
  
• Some travel may be necessary for ingredient sourcing, supplier visits, or attending industry conferences.
  

Benefits

At St. Charles We Offer:

• Medical, dental, vision, employer paid life, voluntary life, and EAP
  
• Benefits start on the 1st of the month following 30 days of employment
  
• An employee gym and basketball court
  
• 401(k) plan with a company match
  

Pay: $70,000.00 - $85,000.00 per year

• 401(k)
  
• Dental insurance
  
• Health insurance
  
• Paid time off
  
• Vision insurance
  

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