Food Technologist

Overview

Position requires a person who is strong in practical and technical skills in the field of new products and process development for all Family Foods products (cheese, condiments, meat, poultry, dry‑cured, soup, pickles, etc.). Must integrate technical strengths with creativity in new‑product development and process design. Able to direct multiple tasks simultaneously and communicate the department mission effectively with internal and external contacts.

Adapts to unforeseen circumstances and resolves conflict with minimal assistance.

• Take all measures to ensure total satisfaction of internal and external customers and suppliers.
• Supervise and perform daily projects assigned by the department.
• Exercise good leadership and communication skills.
• Help build and maintain an effective R&D team.
• Communicate effectively with all customers and suppliers.
• Keep accurate and detailed records on critical product development and department documents (sensory evaluations, shelf‑life testing, analytical results, lab submission forms, etc.).
• Ensure all department requirements and SOPs are met.
• Actively participate in research, justification, and implementation involved in long‑range planning of the department and new product lines.
• Travel up to 50% for training and lead product testing at other supplier and plant locations.
• Utilize software platforms to request, review, and approve documentation for new products and suppliers.
• Supervise and conduct product evaluations and tests as assigned by management.
• Secure and prepare product samples for evaluation and comparison.
• Evaluate test results and recommend next steps.
• Troubleshoot opportunities as they arise.
• Maintain R&D conformance to business plan and corporate direction.
• Develop processes and products as required.
• Complete and submit reports and documentation within time constraints.
• Present tests and test data to senior management.
• Perform additional administrative duties as assigned.

• Bachelor’s degree in Food Science or related field, or equivalent experience.
• 3–5 years experience in an R&D environment.
• Computer proficiency (MS Office, Trace Gains, Oracle, and other company‑provided software).

• Fluent in English. Spanish skills a plus.
• Ability to interpret and generate statistical data.
• Decisive decision making.

• Ability to lift up to 35lbs.
• Comfortable working in a lab and industrial plant floor (food and meat processing) in a cold (