R&D Food Product Development Scientist

Details for the position are as follows:

• 12 month contract to start
• Rate: $70 an hour
• Location:
  
  Glenview, IL

• This is a research-driven, technical product development role supporting projects across the North America Away-From-Home (AFH) business. The position is responsible for leading and executing innovation and renovation initiatives, contributing to the development and improvement of products within the Condiments and Sauces category.
• The ideal candidate brings a strong technical foundation, excellent communication skills, and the ability to apply scientific principles to solve new and complex challenges. This role requires effective multitasking, independent execution with minimal supervision, and a collaborative, solution-oriented mindset.
• Conduct bench-top experiments and perform analytical testing to support product development initiatives.
• Evaluate products for flavor, texture, color, nutritional content, shelf life, and compliance with regulatory and industry standards.
• Support the development, optimization, and commercialization of new and existing products, including ingredient evaluation and cost-saving initiatives.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with Packaging, Quality, Operations, Project Management, Marketing, and Sales to scope and execute projects aligned with business objectives.
• Lead and support technical activities such as:
  Feasibility assessments, Prototype development, Cost analysis, Factory trial planning and execution, Recipe and process documentation, Label development and regulatory review, Shelf-life testing and validation, Technical support during initial production runs

• Bachelor’s degree in Food Science, Dairy Science, Meat Science, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.
• Strong understanding of Design of Experiments (DOE).
• Excellent communication, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.
• High attention to detail with strong investigative capabilities.
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously in a fast-paced environment.
• Self-motivated with a strong desire to learn and grow.
• Internship or co-op experience in the food or consumer packaged goods industry preferred.