Senior, Product Validation Technologist

Factor_ a brand of Hello Fresh is seeking a Senior, Product Validation Technologist to join the Product Validation team. The Product Validation Technologist III will be responsible for the planning, execution and reporting of validation testing for new ingredients, equipment, recipe builds and product launches. You will also be responsible for the preparation and successful execution of recipe commercialization & development of ingredient specifications in-line with Factor objectives.

To thrive in this role you will need to have a genuine interest in utilizing data and metrics to find food manufacturing optimization and improvement opportunities.

• Oversee daily workload allocation and utilization for the on-site Ingredient Solutions team, ensuring consistent project coverage and team productivity. When capacity exists, coordinate with partner teams (Commercialization and Kitchen Excellence) to identify additional projects that keep the team engaged and aligned with company priorities.
• Plan, execute, and capture data on Recipe Scaling tests to assist in guiding operations and production needs.
• Develop and execute validation testing of new ingredients and equipment in line with cross-functional team needs and company objectives.
• Organize,conduct & report sensory evaluations of new ingredients and recipes with internal stakeholders.
• Liaise between Operations, Culinary, Procurement and Nutrition teams to help bring company initiatives to completion.
• Assist in the development and maintaining of company specifications, SOPs, and best practices in regard to product and supplier onboarding.
• Develop an understanding of production process to assist in identifying process and evaluation improvement opportunities
• Evaluate finished products to validate end-customer experience and shelf-life.
• Coach and mentor members of to help them maximize their effectiveness

• Detail-oriented - You are able to schedule, organize and execute detailed testing plans
• self-driven, goal oriented, and interested in continued learning
• strong in verbal and written communication, able to generate report on product testing
• able to work independently and collaboratively as part of a team.
• able to handle multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
• able to lift up to 50 lbs

• An undergraduate degree in Food Science, Culinary Science, Biology, Chemistry or a related science field or Culinary Arts background with 3+ years of culinary experience.
• 1 - 3+ years’ experience in food manufacturing, food product development, applications, operations or applicable culinary experience.
• a proficiency in MS Office and/or Google Suite
• experience in utilizing basic analytical, pilot and culinary equipment.

• Competitive salary, 401k with company match that vest immediately upon participation, and company equity plan based on role
• Generous PTO, including sabbatical, and parental leave of up to 16 weeks
• Comprehensive health and wellness benefits with options at $0 monthly, effective first day of employment
• Tuition reimbursement for continuing education (upon 2 years of service)
• Up to 85% discount on subscriptions to Hello Fresh meal plans (Hello Fresh, Green Chef, Every plate, and Factor_)
• Access to 7 different Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) including those for BIPOC, women, veterans, parents, and LGBTQ+
• Inclusive, collaborative, and dynamic work environment within a fast-paced, mission-driven company that is disrupting the traditional food supply chain

This job description is intended to provide a general overview of the responsibilities. However, the Company reserves the right to adjust, modify, or reassign work tasks and responsibilities as needed to meet changing business needs, operational requirements, or other factors.

Illinois Pay Range

$74,813—$83,125 USD