Scientist - Health&Wellness

Title:

Scientist, Health & Wellness Applications
- Virginia Dare

Reports to:

R&D Director, Applications

• A technically proficient scientist that provides applications lab support to the Flavor Applications Lab through hands on product development. Project turnaround time, accuracy and communication of project results are critical to success as well as an ability to make independent decisions. The incumbent is responsible for completing their own projects and supporting other application scientists and flavorists in the lab. Specific responsibilities include the following.
• Successful completion of all the tasks associated with projects to which the incumbent is assigned including keeping relevant parties informed of project status. This includes, but is not limited to R&D management, business unit management, sales, senior management and customers.
• Develop product concepts to demonstrate flavor creation innovation that supports customer’s requests and market trends.
• Evaluate flavor, create new flavor blends and make recommendations to satisfy project requirements.
• Participation in the sensory evaluation of own and other’s projects.
• Active participation in taste panels where appropriate.
• Participate in all supplemental tastings of products as needed.
• Effectively interface with such diverse groups as Flavor Chemistry, Supply Chain, Regulatory, Sales Business Unit Management, and Finance.
• Interface with customers through conference calls, video calls, and in-person customer visits and working sessions.
• Travel to customer meetings and industry trade shows to represent Virginia Dare Applications.
• Follows all site safety and GLP practices.
• Maintain work area in a safe, neat and organized manner.
• Adheres to all Virginia Dare policies and procedures.
• In general, contributes to the overall process of running the Virginia Dare Applications lab.

Education:

BS, MS or PhD in Food Science, Biology, Chemistry or Engineering.

• Minimum 5 years in R&D
• Experience working with supplement gummies is required, preferably on a pilot and production scale.
• Experience working with the following product areas a plus.
  • Aseptically processed, ready to drink (RTD) protein drinks and shakes
  • RTM (ready to mix) protein shakes
  • Fortified nutritional bars
  • Fortified bakery items
  • Supplement chews and stick packs
  • Pharmaceutical tablets and OTC medications
• Proficient in general lab practices.
• Proficient in applying and evaluating flavors in products.
• Must be able to taste and smell chemicals, flavors and food products.
• Strong leadership skills
• Able to deliver accurate results within short deadlines with limited direction and supervision.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Possess critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
• Demonstrate creativity and innovative ideas for new flavor types.

Hands-on experience with pilot plant equipment is a plus (Microthermics unit or equivalent, ice cream manufacturing).