FOOD SCIENTIST

Reports To: Director of New Product Development

General Summary Participate in all areas of Research and Development including product/process development and modification, project management, cost control, formulation and formula maintenance, labeling and nutritional requirements, and product packaging. Interface daily with Quality Assurance, Marketing, Sales, Purchasing, and Operations in support of company and department objectives.

Essential Duties

• Participate in product/process development and/or improvement from concept to final product, including bench top, pilot plant, plant trials, and production runs
• Develop and participate in tests and evaluations of ingredients and equipment needed to support product development and cost improvements
• Set up and conduct sensory evaluation sessions of existing, new, and competitors' products and/or ingredients or process modifications; perform statistical analyses of data
• Prepare product descriptions, ingredient declarations, nutritional information, and calculations
• Set up and maintain R&D records including ingredient specifications, nutritional databases, and product specifications and codes
• Understand and perform computer-assisted operations in development of test and plant formulations and Bills of Materials (BOMs)
• Assist Marketing in packaging development, including reviews and sign-offs relative to NLEA matters for branded, co-pack, and private label products
• Serve as a resource to the QC Lab, providing assistance and training as needed
• Participate in cross-functional team functions related to quality, cost, delivery, safety, and morale
• Serve as primary contact for the QA team to resolve out-of-specification Certificates of Analysis
• Perform clerical duties including ordering supplies, ingredients, and equipment

Requirements

• B.S. in Food Science or related field (Dairy Science, Biological Sciences), or A.A.S. in Food Science with 4+ years of experience in food processing and/or food ingredient environments
• Proficient in Microsoft Word, Excel, Access, and Outlook; OWL software or equivalent
• Experience managing projects in support of new food product/food processing development
• Ability to function and contribute within cross-functional teams (marketing, sales, purchasing, production, finance)
• Willingness to travel, including overnight travel, as needed
• Strong safety orientation, creative skills, and verbal/written communication skills
• Ability to lift 50 pounds regularly
• Ability to taste dairy products and other allergenic ingredients
• Must follow Company guidelines for safety and Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs)
• Flexibility to work all shifts and weekends as needed

Working Conditions Office, laboratory, pilot plant, and manufacturing environments. Includes considerable computer work, some travel, slippery floors, noise, and some lifting.

Compensation The expected yearly salary range for this position is $63,000 - $66,000, commensurate with skills and experience.

Perry’s Ice Cream is an EOE, M/F/D and Drug Free Company