Product Development Scientist II

Purpose Statement

Rich Products a $5.5Billion food manufacturing company is looking for a Product Development Scientist II to join our growing R&D this role you will be responsible for new product development product maintenance and product improvement for our toppings creams and culinary solutions (TCCS) category.

In this role you will collaborate with cross functional teams to ensure successful development and commercialization of new products product improvement or cost reductions. You will conduct routine non-routine and complex research and development activities concerned with the chemical biological and/or physical complexity of product formulations in order to develop new products and evaluate and improve the quality of existing products and related processes.

You will successfully partner with others cross-functionally.

This role is based in Buffalo NY with expected travel of up to 25%.

Key Accountabilities and Outcomes

New Product Development/Product Improvements/Cost reductions
Prepares prototype and line extension products using research lab pilot lab manufacturing facilities and equipment as required. Typical project assignments involve small product line extensions and iterative new products (e.g. modifying a customized product formula to create a new product).
Plans organizes and completes projects of modest scope or are a segment of a larger project. Selects and/or develops appropriate methods for conducting projects and assists in designing experiments.
Interfaces frequently with various internal departments (i.e. Marketing Purchasing Engineering) and customers in accomplishing project milestones.
Selects and evaluates raw materials for experiments.
Sets-up operates and maintains research lab equipment.
Works with outside labs universities ingredient suppliers and lab equipment vendors as needed by project activity.
Designs and conducts complex shelf life and storage studies including product and package performance under various conditions and makes recommendations for appropriate adjustments in product and/or package as required.
Designs and conducts storage studies including product and package performance under various conditions.
Performs complex measurements and statistical analysis.

Technical Support
Presents results of complex experiments and recommendations to various groups both internally and externally.
Orders materials for producing and evaluating complex prototypes.
Develops solutions to a variety of technical problems of moderate scope and complexity by applying extensive technical knowledge and experience.

Record-keeping
Maintains accurate up to date records laboratory notebooks and computer database.
Prepare and document all plant validation trials according to department protocol.
Ensures the work environment is sanitary safe and orderly.
Maintains a sanitary safe and orderly work environment.

Knowledge Skills and Experience

Bachelors Degree in Food Science Food Engineering or related field with 2 years product development related experience in food preparation/food industry; Food Science Food Engineering or related field.

Experience developing some of the following - ambient icings fillings glazes emulsions dairy UHT products highly preferred.

Experience in applying advanced mathematics (i.e. statistics) and their practical application required.

Broad understanding of food science (e.g. biochemistry microbiology nutrition etc.) acquired through both lecture and laboratory work.

Demonstrated ability to apply technical standards principles theories concepts and techniques.

Solid verbal and written communication skills and presentation skills; with all levels within an organization.

Demonstrated ability to work in a fast paced environment.

Solid PC proficiency in Microsoft Office 365 including Word and PowerPoint; intermediate to advanced proficiency level in Excel and database statistical software (spreadsheets computer analysis; report writing). Proficient with relevant software tools (e.g. PLM etc.) a plus.

Ability to use presentation and project management software beneficial.

Work Environment & Safety Notice

Research and Development laboratories are not food-allergen-free environments. Individuals with severe food allergies should consider this before applying.

Employees may occasionally be exposed to Cleaning-In-Place (CIP) detergents through smell or incidental contact during routine operations.

Exposure to food ingredients chemicals and cleaning agents is expected; appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) and safety training will be provided to minimize risks.

Work may occur in varying temperature environments including refrigerated and heated areas.

Physical Requirements

Ability to lift and carry up to 50 lbs safely.

Stand for 6 or more hours during the workday with limited opportunities for sitting.

Regular bending stooping crouching and reaching to access equipment materials and storage areas.

Ability to work in confined spaces and at various heights including occasional climbing of ladders or steps.

Push pull and maneuver carts bins and equipment including heavy items with the assistance of mechanical aids when necessary.

Manual dexterity and fine motor skills for handling small components and operating precision instruments.

Ability to use hand tools and equipment safely and effectively as required for operating various laboratory or production equipment.

Sensory ability to compare and distinguish differences in ingredients materials and products through taste smell touch and visual inspection.

Ability to follow all safety protocols including proper lifting techniques and ergonomic practices.

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