Beverage Scientist

About the role

The Beverage Scientist develops and optimizes formulas and processes for beverage products under the National Beverage portfolio. Owns and supports product development stages from concept to commercial introduction, as well as formula optimizations.

Responsibilities

• Conduct experiments and produce samples with high accuracy, as well as design the processes for making products with a consistent flavor, color, and texture.
• Develop and optimize existing formulas and processes.
• Conduct sensory evaluations and generate reports.
• Collaborate with Marketing and Regulatory for alignment on product development.
• Conduct line trials within the manufacturing facility to ensure accuracy of process and quality, and successful scale-up.
• Commercialize formulas, collaborate with Quality, Regulatory, Procurement, and Manufacturing, ensuring approved profile, specs, and timelines are met.
• Apply knowledge of quality control testing methods and Good Manufacturing Practices to drive development and improvement projects to integrate formulas into manufacturing successfully.
• Collect, analyze, and summarize process quality information and trends.
• Review formulas and technical documents.
• Ensure compliance with FDA regulations and policies.
• Work across functions and communicate with all functional and operating groups on labeling and compliance matters.
• Travel to any location where the Company operates as business needs dictate.
• Communicate cross-functionally and stay abreast of current and emerging issues and opportunities, and related impact on products and product technology.
• Update job knowledge by participating in educational opportunities, reading professional publications, maintaining personal networks, and participating in professional organizations.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in food science. A science background with relevant experience will be considered.
• Minimum of 5 years’ R&D experience, including commercialization and in-plant experience, preferably in the carbonated beverage industry.
• Good mathematical and scientific calculation skills, and ability to document the steps.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills using systematic methods.
• High attention to detail and accuracy in all aspects of the role.
• Knowledge of FDA regulations.
• Genesis and Tracegains / FoodLogiQ experience desired.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Ability to multitask and manage projects with competing priorities.
• Willing to work a flexible schedule that may include different hours to accommodate trial runs.
• Highly independent with little direction needed.
• IFT Certified Food Scientist is preferred.

Skills

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office products, including Excel and Word.
• Ability to read, analyze, and interpret common information, reports, and other documents.
• Ability to respond to common inquiries or complaints from customers, regulatory agencies, or company representatives.
• Ability to effectively present information to management.

Physical Demands

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Regularly required to walk, stand for long periods of time, sit, and talk or hear.
• Frequently required to use hands and fingers to handle or feel, bend, squat, reach, and turn to access files and office equipment.
• Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds.

Work Environment

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

• Field positions will be exposed to various unfamiliar conditions where Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) must be worn, including manufacturing and warehouse plants.
• The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate but increases significantly in warehouse and manufacturing plants.