Food Scientist

About the role

This role focuses on leading and executing seasoning qualification trials at commercial bakeries across the United States. You will ensure that new seasoning suppliers can match existing product sensory profiles and specifications, manage scale-up from lab to full manufacturing, and perform bench work and lab testing that closely mimic factory processes. As an independent R&D food scientist, you will own projects end-to-end, from technical validation through documentation and cross-functional communication, while supporting a major biscuit department initiative with the opportunity to expand into other product areas. This is a Contract position based out of East Hanover, NJ. The position is anticipated to close on Sep 25, 2026.

Responsibilities

• Lead and execute seasoning qualification trials at bakeries to validate new seasoning suppliers against existing product standards.
• Ensure new seasonings match the established sensory profile and technical specifications of current products.
• Manage the scale-up of new seasonings from laboratory development to full manufacturing processes.
• Conduct bench work and lab testing to accurately mimic the manufacturing process prior to factory trials.
• Plan, lead, and document pre-trial and post-trial meetings, capturing key decisions, trial results, and follow-up actions.
• Travel to bakeries across the United States approximately twice per month to oversee and support factory trials.
• Work independently as an R&D food scientist, driving projects forward with minimal supervision.
• Manage ingredient specifications, including creation, review, and maintenance of technical documentation for new seasonings.
• Collaborate with production and manufacturing teams during factory trials to ensure smooth execution and data collection.
• Support a year-long initiative for the biscuit department, contributing technical expertise to improve products and processes.
• Apply research and development methodologies to new product development and process optimization in food manufacturing.
• Communicate trial outcomes, risks, and recommendations clearly to cross-functional stakeholders.
• Ensure that lab-scale results are translated effectively into pilot plant and full-scale manufacturing environments.

Skills

• Bachelor’s degree in Food Science, Chemistry, or a closely related field.
• Minimum of 3 years of experience in food manufacturing, including hands-on work in pilot plants and bakeries to test products.
• At least 3 years of experience in research and development (R&D) within the food industry.
• Demonstrated experience running trials in a factory setting, including planning, execution, and evaluation.
• Strong bench work and laboratory testing experience, with the