Sr. Food Scientist

# Sr. Food ScientistHot JobGRAND RAPIDS, MI 49512## Description**Description:** The Senior Food Scientist is responsible for applying scientific principles and providing technical expertise to cross-functional teams to develop innovative products from the concept phase through successful commercialization.**Work Environment:**This job will utilize the R&D Lab in an office environment to create bench samples/formulations/documentation, while trials and new product start-ups are produced on the production floor. Food Scientists are expected to spend equal parts in the office as well as the production floor. Occasional travel is required. **Physical Demands:*** Hearing and speaking to exchange information* Dexterity of hands and fingers to operate equipment* Reaching overhead, above shoulders and horizontally* Bending at the waist, kneeling, sitting, or crouching* Ability to walk and stand-up during shift**Competencies:*** **Interpersonal Skills:** Strong communication skills to interact effectively with customers, regulatory agents, and company employees* **Data Analysis:** Proficiency in analyzing complex data and interpreting results to drive product improvements* **Innovation**: Ability to develop new food products from concept to commercialization.* **Project Management:** Experience in managing projects, including resource planning and execution.* **Organization**: Detailed and comprehensive Documentation and Record keeping**Core Responsibilities:*** Leading the develop of new products and product improvements in collaboration with customers and cross-functional teams* Develop and maintain accurate records related to products, including formulas, production processes, ingredient documentation, and nutritional data.* Research & Development + Coordinate and execute plant trials and prepare results for review. + Collect and maintain analytical and process settings for all R&D products. + Create product formulas and customer product specification sheets as it pertains to the finished product. + Perform packaging trials for foil film pillow pouches, cases, cartons and displays to ensure proper product to packaging fill. + Designs and conduct shelf-life studies, including product and package performance under various conditions and make recommendations for appropriate adjustment in product and/or package development. + Collaborate with Quality to develop testing parameters for product specifications. + Review production/quality paperwork for all skus to ensure accuracy of formula, vendors, specifications etc.* Regulatory + Capability to make informed decisions based on data analysis and regulatory requirements + Ensure all activities comply with regulatory standards and prepare for audits + Collect ingredient documentation for new and existing vendors. + Create nutritional panels and ingredients statements through Genesis Software. + Review all film proofs to verify NFP’s, Ingredient Statements and Claims are accurate. + Complete questionnaires, specification sheets, etc. per customer request.* Customer Relations + Assist customers in answering questions pertaining to their products and the manufacturing process. + Collect and ship out customer requested samples as requested.* Continuous Improvement* Complete and/or assist in special projects around the facility as needed to aid in the continuous improvement of the production process, finished products, warehouse handling and storage, purchasing, etc.* Provide technical expertise and leadership throughout the product development process.* Conduct market analysis to identify consumer needs and trends.* **Other:** + Follow and enforce all OSHA Safety Regulation and Safety Rules. + Utilize knowledge and research methods to benchmark materials, planning activities and to drive best practice results + Work towards and support a culture of continuous improvement and work to make business and department improvements wherever possible + Responsible for following all food safety policies, procedures and regulatory criteria including Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs) + Participate in Quality and Food Safety Team Meetings## Qualifications**Education and Experience:*** Bachelor’s degree in Food Science, Agriculture, Biology, Microbiology, Nutrition, Chemistry, (or equivalent)* 5-7 years of in food science and related fields, preferably in a co-packing environment.* In-depth knowledge of FDA regulations, HACCP, SSOP, SOP, GMP requirements, and food safety legislation* Strong analytical and problem-solving skills* Strong Formulation and Mathematical Skills* Comprehensive Sensory Testing’s Requirements* Effective communication in English language* Strong Microsoft Excel Skills required* Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to collaborate with various departments* Ability to undertake complex analysis to create information and to interpret data and trends* Proficiency in food-related regulatory requirements, statistical quality control, and food microbiology. #J-18808-Ljbffr