The Scientist, R&D will be joining a private equity “start-up” business with iconic brands, strong retail presence, and outstanding manufacturing capabilities. With moderate supervision, the Scientist leads product development projects from concept through commercialization. The Scientist is responsible for developing and testing formulas and processes for new products, quality improvements and cost reductions with moderate levels of supervision and guidance from the R&D Director and/or Senior Scientist. The Company plans to aggressively increase the pace of innovation in the baking, ingredients, and breakfast categories where there is ample opportunity for disruption and differentiation. The role will be based in the Toledo, Ohio manufacturing facility where a fully operational pilot plant is located.
Responsibilities:
- Provide technical input throughout all phases of New Product Development (concept through commercialization)
- Lead product development projects from concept through commercialization.
- Lead/support the planning, execution and reporting of plant trials and product validations for new products and reformulations.
- Work with Marketing and partner with Operations for commercial execution against all new products.
- Seek, evaluate, and utilize technical information to achieve objectives.
- Recommend and implement product quality improvements based on quantitative insights.
- Investigate and implement cost reduction initiatives.
- Cross functional collaboration with Marketing, Sales, Supply Chain, Finance, and Operations.
- Maintain laboratory ingredient inventories. Keep accurate records on lab work and data analysis.
- Safely operate, clean, and maintain lab-ware and equipment while adhering to GMPs in the handling and preparation of food products.
- Other duties and projects as assigned.
- Will need to travel as requested, less than 20%.
Qualifications:
- 3-5 years of food R&D experience. Experience in baking categories strongly preferred
- Understanding of flours and grains
- Understanding of grain-based products, chemical leavening, yeast leavening, ingredient functionality
- Understanding of carbohydrate chemistry and fat/oil chemistry
- Bachelor's Degree in Food Science or Engineering.
- Preferred:Master's Degree in Food Science, Engineering, or Business
Personal Characteristics:
- Displays even temperament, ethical values and good team-play within R&D and cross-functionally
- Strong communication skills
- Great attitude and drive: Ability to roll up sleeves and get things done.
- Ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment, can handle moderate degrees of ambiguity.
- Passion for food and innovation.