R&D Associate Scientist

Participate in the development, optimization, and commercialization of new products and quality improvements (ingredients, formulations, fluid, cultured, and frozen) in DFA's manufacturing facilities

Job Duties and Responsibilities

• Follow technical plan to achieve project objectives (cost, quality, time)
• Help incorporate market research insights to create products that delight consumers
• Evaluate competitive products to ensure prototypes are comparable or better
• Procure raw materials and technical information needed for product and label development
• Help create cost formulas that meet business unit requirements
• Participate in the creation of batching procedures and process flow diagrams that successfully scale up in manufacturing facilities
• Participate in pilot plant development, production trials, and commercialization
• Help create specifications that achieve consistent finished product quality
• Record test procedures and observations
• Participate in product evaluations and interpret shelf-life results
• Help coordinate technical input and implement recommendations
• Participate in development of technical risks and implement contingency plans
• Communicate project results with project leaders
• Document research processes
• Follow all DFA good manufacturing practices (GMP) and work in a manner consistent with all corporate regulatory, food safety, quality, and sanitation requirements
• The requirements herein are intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by employee, but is not a complete list of responsibilities, duties, and skills required. Other duties may be assigned as required

Education and Experience

• Undergraduate degree in food science, microbiology, biology, chemistry, chemical engineering, or related curriculum (or equivalent combination of experience and education)
• 0 to 2 years of R&D, product development, innovation at food or ingredient company, or related experience
• Certification and/or License - may be required during course of employment

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Knowledge of food science principles
• Knowledge of laboratory, pilot plant, and manufacturing facility processes and procedures
• Able to operate multiple lab and pilot plant equipment
• Able to problem solve, multi-task and prioritize own work activities
• Able to work with accuracy and attention to detail
• Able to generate ideas, test their effectiveness, and recommend a plan of action
• Able to demonstrate professional verbal and written communication skills
• Able to follow written and oral instruction
• Able to communicate and translate technical topics into easy-to-understand concepts
• Must be able to read, write and speak English

An Equal Opportunity Employer