Food Scientist

Food Scientist - Senior Scientist, Flavor Analytical

Location: East Hanover, NJ 07936
Pay Rate: $40.00-$43.48/hour
Schedule: Monday-Friday, 9:00 AM-4:00 PM
Duration: 6 month contract, potential for extension

Overview

The Senior Scientist - Flavor Analytical supports flavor research and product development within the Biscuit and Baked Snacks category. This role focuses on establishing and expanding in-house flavor analytical capabilities, including the setup of new Solid-Phase Microextraction (SPME) and Gas Chromatography (GC) equipment.

The Senior Scientist will develop and validate analytical methods, conduct untargeted flavor analysis across a variety of food matrices, identify and quantify aroma compounds, interpret complex analytical data, and communicate findings to technical and cross-functional teams.

Key Responsibilities

• Set up, install, calibrate, and support new SPME and GC analytical equipment in collaboration with internal teams and equipment vendors.
• Develop, validate, and execute analytical methods for untargeted flavor analysis across a variety of food matrices.
• Perform LC, GC, and GC-MS testing to isolate, concentrate, identify, and quantify potent aroma compounds.
• Prepare samples using techniques such as Solid-Phase Microextraction (SPME).
• Analyze complex chromatographic data using analytical software and perform quality assurance checks.
• Interpret analytical results and provide technical recommendations based on findings.
• Plan and lead bench-top experiments and laboratory trials in accordance with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP).
• Prepare technical reports and clearly communicate analytical findings to both technical and non-technical audiences.
• Partner with flavor research, product development, and cross-functional teams to test scientific hypotheses and guide project decisions.
• Maintain productive relationships with instrument manufacturers, vendors, and external technical partners.
• Follow laboratory safety procedures, quality systems, and applicable policies while maintaining a clean and organized work environment.
• Develop and execute project plans under manager guidance, providing regular progress updates and identifying potential risks or issues.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of professional analytical laboratory experience preferred.
• Hands-on experience with Liquid Chromatography (LC), Gas Chromatography (GC), and Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS).
• Experience using chromatographic data analysis software.
• Experience with flavor analysis, aroma compound identification or isolation, and sample preparation techniques such as SPME.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and data interpretation skills.
• Ability to manage multiple analytical projects and meet deadlines in a laboratory environment.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional technical teams and external partners.

Education

• Bachelor of Science degree in Food Science, Chemistry, or a related scientific discipline from an accredited college or university required.
• Equivalent professional analytical experience may be considered where applicable.

Benefits: Employee contribution and may include:

• Health insurance.
• Health savings account.
• Dental insurance.
• Vision insurance.
• Flexible spending accounts.
• Life insurance.
• Retirement plan.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran. Rate of pay within the stated range will depend on the qualifications of the applicant.