R&D Process Specialist

R&D Process Specialist The R&D Process Specialist is responsible for designing, optimizing, and validating product, process, equipment, and packaging parameters to support a smooth handover to Operations. This position will assess process and resource needs, coordinate production trials, validate operating parameters, and ensure complete work instructions, validation reports, and handover documentation. The R&D Process Specialist will drive production efficiency, consistency, process control, and operational readiness for new and improved products. The Process Specialist will work closely with R&D, Production, Quality, Planning, Engineering, and other internal and external partners to support scale-up, troubleshooting, equipment commissioning, training, and successful commercialization. Primary Responsibilities: New Product Scale-Up & Validation Assess equipment, process, and resource needs for new products and collaborate with Product Developers to scale up formulations and processes. Lead pre-trial discussions with Production, Quality, Planning, and R&D to define trial plans, responsibilities, and resource requirements. Validate product and process parameters through three successful test runs before turnover to Operations. Prepare detailed validation reports with clear actions and timelines, and lead post-trial reviews to capture key learnings, issues, and next steps. Formalize the release of new products to Operations through completion of the handover process and stakeholder sign-off. Operational Readiness & Documentation Collaborate with Production and Engineering on scale-up activities and initial operator training. Create detailed work instructions for each new product in partnership with Production supervisors and leads. Update standard operating procedures and work instructions as needed and ensure complete documentation for new or improved recipes and processes. Build accessible project documentation in alignment with the new product development procedure using the appropriate tools. Ensure formula and know-how confidentiality. Process Improvement & Production Support Partner with Operations to identify process improvement opportunities that support efficiency, product quality, and process control targets. Provide real-time production troubleshooting and support root cause analysis for quality or processing issues. Conduct Production and Quality training as needed. Update rework and fat-wash matrices as needed while collaborating with Product Developers to optimize current formulations using new ingredient technologies. Monitor emerging equipment, process, and ingredient technologies and propose solutions that may differentiate products or improve performance. Collaborate with Group and Local Engineering teams to assess new technologies and equipment. Support commissioning of new production and packaging lines, including the design and execution of test protocols across commissioning stages. Validate recipes and process parameters for new lines through three successful production runs and complete standard validation and handover requirements before full commercialization. Maintain strong performance of R&D laboratory equipment by standardizing pilot-scale processes and coordinating equipment upkeep. Compliance, Reporting & Collaboration Support TQM, SQF, and FSMA requirements and comply with food safety procedures during raw material selection, product development or modification, and sample preparation. Report food safety and quality issues to the immediate supervisor and/or Head of Quality. Provide monthly reporting to the R&D Manager or Senior R&D Manager. Maintain a functional link with business unit specialists at Puratos Headquarters and build an active network across customers, machine suppliers, researchers, vendors, and the international Puratos R&D community. Complete other assignments as directed by the direct supervisor. Requirements: Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Food Science, Food Engineering, or a related field. Minimum of 2 years of experience in a manufacturing environment or food product development; food, baking, or baking-ingredient experience is preferred. Proficiency with standard Windows-based applications. Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English; Spanish language skills are a plus. Hands-on, analytical, and detail-oriented approach with the ability to design and follow defined processes while remaining pragmatic. Proactive, self-motivated, and comfortable taking initiative in a changing environment. Ability to manage multiple projects, organize priorities, and collaborate effectively in project-based teams. Strong networking skills, a positive attitude, and a passion for food and innovation. Physical Demands: Occasionally lift up to 25 lbs; frequent sitting, occasional, walking, constant visual acuity (near/far) The following common allergens are processed in our facilities: wheat, eggs, dairy, and soy. Looking for a Career for Good? We offer a competitive compensation and benefit package, designed to promote a Happier, Healthier You which includes: Compensation: Annual compensation based on skills and experience ranging from $75,000 – $93,000. Additional compensation earned through a 10% or targeted annual bonus. Amount based on personal and company performance. Benefits: Medical coverage starts the first of the month—no waiting period Immediate 401(k) eligibility with fully vested matching contributions Over 5 weeks of paid time off in your first year Free life coaching, onsite health exams, and 24/7 access to Registered Nurses Lifestyle Spending Account If you are a solution oriented and analytical thinker with a passion for leading and inspiring people, we invite you to experience the magic of being yourself and join us for "a career for good." Puratos