Processing Expert and Project Manager

About NIZO

At NIZO we work every day to improve food and health. Since 1948 we have partnered with international food and health companies to develop innovative solutions in the fields of bacteria proteins and advanced food processing technologies. From our high-tech R&D center in Ede we combine science technology and hands-on processing expertise in our food-grade processing facilities. As one of the worlds most advanced contract research organizations we help companies optimize processes and bring new products to market faster more sustainably and more efficiently. With a growing global population we believe that better nutrition enabled by robust and scalable processing solutions is essential for better health now and in the future.

What You Will Do

As a Processing Expert and Project Manager in the Protein & Processing team you will scope design and lead projects on process development process upscaling and production for a wide range of customers and products. You will be a key technical expert and support projects with your broad knowledge and experience in processing complex this role you will manage projects end-to-end and work in a highly dynamic environment that requires flexibility and the ability to think on your feet to troubleshoot challenges as they arise during processing. Our pilot plant offers endless possibilities and you will play a central role in maximizing its potential with your proactive and hands-on mindset. You will collaborate closely with our skilled operators as well as with experts across all NIZOs areas of expertise to deliver high-quality innovative outcomes for our customers.

Your Key Responsibilities

• Scoping of projects based on customer requests in the area of food ingredient and product processing.
• The design development optimization and scaling of complex processes for a wide range of (primarily) food ingredients and products on lab and pilot scale
• End-to-end project management including developing technical plans with the customer managing the project execution by the team of operators and experts and reporting.
• You will use your experience and up-to-date knowledge to help steer our strategy and processing offering.
• You will work closely with colleagues from the pilot plant R&D technical services QA and sales.

What You Bring

• Academic degree in food technology dairy technology chemical engineering biotechnology or related. A PhD is considered an advantage but not a requirement.
• At least 5 preferably 10 years of demonstrated experience with industrial or pilot plant processing in food pharma biotech or similar.
• Expertise and practical experience with a wide range of unit operations such as membrane filtration spray drying and powder processing evaporation industrial chromatography high- and/or low-moisture food extrusion
• Business savvy and customer focused; you will be in direct contact with our customers.
• You have or are developing an (international) network in the food industry and are willing to travel as needed (conferences site visits customer visits).
• Proactive can-do attitude and ability to work independently.
• On site presence during pilot trials which can start as early as 6 AM.
• Experience planning organizing and executing work within a project structure.
• Ability to collaborate with and manage diverse internal and external stakeholders.
• Fluent in English. Dutch is an advantage.

What We Offer

A dynamic role at the intersection of science technology and innovationwithin one of the most advanced food research centers in the world. You will work in a collaborative environment with unique lab and pilot facilities and contribute directly to the development of healthier more sustainable foods.

• A diverse and challenging job in a close team working on innovative food systems.
• A people-focused and engaging work environment where you can contribute to more sustainable and healthier food.
• A fair salary aligned with your experience plus strong employment conditions including a pension scheme 25 vacation days and 13 ADV days based on fulltime employment.

Want to know moreGet in touch with Steven Cornet