Food Scientist

About the role

As the subject matter expert for Meijer brand food products, you will focus on the physical, chemical, and organoleptic properties of food. You’ll serve as a key technical resource for Meijer Vendors, including Meijer Manufacturing facilities, ensuring quality and consistency in new product launches and reformulations. You’ll also manage existing Own Brand (OB) product specifications and hold vendors accountable for implementing sustainable corrective actions for quality issues identified through audits, product complaints, or other feedback.

Responsibilities

• Oversee the Product Quality Review program, evaluating Meijer Own Brand food products against National Brand targets or other defined quality and nutritional parameters.
• Evaluate and report on the nutritional value, appearance, color, flavor, and texture of foods through Product Quality Reviews, Product Cuttings, and other assessments.
• Partner with Product Development during new product launches and reformulations to provide support with product testing (chemical, physical, sensory, shelf life) and troubleshoot challenges.
• Work with vendors to identify root causes of formulation or production issues.
• Ensure vendor compliance with food safety and quality requirements for all Meijer brand food products.
• Monitor, report, and assist as a technical resource for Meijer brand food product complaints.
• Seek opportunities to enhance product quality, safety, and efficiency.
• Stay current with industry trends, research, and emerging technologies.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Food Science or a similar field.
• Minimum of 2 years of food science, food quality assurance, or similar experience.
• Experience in quality or production within a food manufacturing environment.
• Knowledge of chemical, physical, and microbiological properties of food and food ingredients.
• Understanding of food production and processing.
• Ability to perform sensory testing on food products.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to engage effectively at all organizational levels.
• Proactive problem-solving and critical-thinking abilities.
• Proven ability to research and apply market and trend information.
• Strong project management and organizational skills.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, and MicroStrategy.
• Ability to work autonomously on key deliverables.
• Knowledge of food safety and regulations.

Benefits

• Meijer Rewards program.
• Weekly pay.
• Scheduling flexibility.
• Paid parental leave.
• Paid education assistance.
• Team member discount.
• Development programs for advancement and career growth.