Food Scientist I

Job Summary

Nylabone - Pet Segment at Central Garden & Pet Company is seeking a Food Scientist I to conduct Research and Product Development activities on consumable pet chew products.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with sales, marketing and regulatory in developing product concepts.
• Collaborate with Operations, Quality and Regulatory to commercialize products, develop product specifications; arrange for guaranteed analysis.
• Review packaging proof for package weight, ingredients, guarantee analysis, claims and participate in package review process.
• Source raw materials based on requirements.
• Develop formulas and prototypes. Conduct analytical tests, shelf-life studies and clinical trials for prototypes.
• Define product specifications to uphold product quality, physical and chemical characteristics, etc.
• Compile documentation needed for compliance with applicable regulations and company policies.
• Conduct product testing to ensure product safety, quality and regulatory compliance is met.
• Identify and develop manufacturing process continuous improvements for efficiency and product quality.
• Ensure best practices are being followed in compliance with regulations and company policies.
• Keep current, identify, and communicate to management pet food industry trends and the impact to the business.

Requirements

• B.S. or higher degree in Food Science or related discipline.
• Familiar with FDA, USDA, AFFCO and related regulations.
• Experience using Design of Experiments, statistical analysis, and ability to interpret results.
• Must be detail oriented, organized, and strong communication skills.

Qualifications

• Experience in new product ideas and technology development.
• Knowledge in extruded and injection molded products.
• Ability to measure success through collaboration with various departments.
• Skills in conducting analytical tests, shelf-life studies, and clinical trials.
• Understanding of product specifications and quality control.
• Compliance with relevant regulations and company policies.
• Ability to identify and implement manufacturing process improvements.
• Knowledge of pet food industry trends and their impact on the business.

Benefits

• Comprehensive Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance.
• Free Life and Short-Term Disability Insurance.
• Health and Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts.
• 401k with a 3% company match and annual profit-sharing bonus!
• Paid vacation, holidays, and sick time.
• Employee Assistance Program.
• Discounts on Pet supplies, cell phones, movie tickets, gym memberships, and more.
• Education Assistance (both college degrees and professional certifications).
• Referral Program with a cash bonus.