Research And Development Scientist

About the role

As a Research Scientist based in Buffalo, New York, you will work under the guidance of a Team Leader or Director of R&D to drive the technological aspects of projects aimed at improving existing products or creating new ones within a specific product group or business channel. You will organize and implement trials from conceptual stages through project completion to meet goals defined by marketing teams.

Responsibilities

• Provide technical expertise on projects to improve quality, yields, or address other areas identified by the company to enhance products or production processes.
• Propose ideas for new products and, with the help of a Scientist II or Director of R&D, organize pilot plant or plant trials, interpret results, and assist in process development. Write well-structured, thorough reports with proper conclusions and recommendations.
• Work with plant and engineering teams to conduct feasibility studies for new product development and product improvement.
• Collaborate closely and develop strong relationships with other departments, including Marketing, Purchasing, Packaging, Manufacturing, QA, and Legal.
• Continually explore and evaluate ways to improve production aspects, such as raw materials, production techniques, specifications, packaging, and shelf life.
• Participate in Quality Assurance activities, including HACCP analysis, good manufacturing practices, labeling, and standards of identity.
• Coordinate support activities, including maintaining complex technical notes and records of activity.
• Ensure the confidentiality of company processes and information.
• Participate in patent searches to protect company business and ensure findings are properly documented.
• Develop and maintain contacts within the R&D company network, including collaborating on product development for other countries and subsidiaries, and sharing data and knowledge with other teams.
• Build and maintain industry and academic contacts to stay current with technical developments.
• Act as a Research & Development Technician for routine pilot plant activities.
• Demonstrate commitment to a safe working environment that promotes health and wellbeing, contributing to the company’s overall performance and success.

Approximately 30% travel and/or extended or off-work hours may be required.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent in Dairy or Food Science.
• Three to five years of related experience and/or training, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Skills

• Strong knowledge of cheese processes and food technology (Microbiology, Physics, Biochemistry, Process).
• Strong mathematics knowledge, including statistics.
• Excellent communication skills to collaborate with other departments and technicians.
• Proficient computer skills with working knowledge of Word, Excel, and PowerPoint for report writing and presentations.

Benefits

Lactalis offers a comprehensive Total Rewards Program, including:

• Affordable benefits and significant employer contributions toward insurance costs.
• Generous retirement plan contributions.
• Paid Time Off from day one.
• Professional growth opportunities, including training, development programs, and Education Reimbursement.