Research Scientist, Sweets & Refreshments

About the role

The Research Scientist position is assisting on high complexity initiatives, leading workstreams within larger initiatives, and/or leading low complexity initiatives with support. A low to medium level of autonomy is required depending upon the workstream. A successful candidate is learning how to demonstrate and apply technical knowledge while developing and sharing technical expertise within the functional area and cross functionally within the organization.

This role will focus on leading product development projects which provide innovative new products in the Sweets & Refreshments space, including formulation development, ingredient development, and product transformation interactions. The candidate will perform prototyping and development from bench top to pilot plant to full manufacturing scale and interact closely with a cross-functional group of technical, professional, and managerial staff.

Responsibilities

• Lead product development projects in the Sweets & Refreshments space
• Perform prototyping and development from bench top to pilot plant to full manufacturing scale
• Interact closely with a cross-functional group of technical, professional, and managerial staff of R&D, as well as production, quality, sensory, regulatory, engineering, packaging, and marketing
• Understand the business impact of the projects and apply GMPs, technical rigor, scientific principles and practices
• Provide input for technical feasibility for new product concepts
• Partner with Supply Chain to provide technical support to drive quality and value improvement in products and process
• Lead ingredient shortage mitigation workstreams to minimize supply chain impacts to the business

Requirements

• Experience leading innovation initiatives, which could include product development, quality improvement, cost improvement, technology validation and process optimization
• Demonstrated ability to learn new technical knowledge and apply it during development and commercialization processes
• Specific technical knowledge in sweets & refreshments (chewy sweets, high boiled sweets, and polyols) a plus
• Knowledge of various technical disciplines (Sensory, Research, Engineering and Packaging)
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, in addition to troubleshooting skills
• Proven administrative ability, decision-making skills, financial understanding, business integration skills, and technical expertise

Qualifications

A BS in Food Science, Chemistry, Biology, Chemical Engineering or other STEM degree or a minimum of 2-4 years of applicable experience is required.

Travel

This role will require 25-40% domestic and potential international travel.