Principal Scientist

Overview

GEA Group, founded in Germany in 1881, is a global leader in engineering solutions, serving industries such as food and beverage, pharma, dairy, and more. With over 18,000 employees worldwide and a strong U.S. presence since 1929, GEA combines the heritage of a well-established company with the innovation of a forward-thinking industry leader. At GEA, we’re not just building equipment, we’re building lasting careers with an average employee tenure range from 5 to over 11+ years, reflecting the strong culture, growth opportunities, and support we provide.

Working At GEA Group Has Significant Benefits

• Start strong – Medical, dental, and vision coverage begins on your first day
• Recharge and refresh – 12 paid holidays, including a flexible floating holiday, and 136 hours of PTO
• Invest in your future – 7% 401(k) employer match
• Keep learning – Tuition reimbursement to further your education or skillset
• Live well – Wellness incentive program rewards healthy habits
• Get support when you need it – Confidential Employee Assistance Program for guidance
• Save smart – Flexible Health Savings and Spending Accounts

• Include but are not limited to the following. Other duties may be assigned as required.
• Plan, conduct and supervise day-to-day research projects.
• Design and prepare reports detailing cost of quality measurements and required improvements.
• Identify and implement cost‑saving strategies, including raw material optimization, workflow efficiencies, and improved experimental approaches.
• Report on all projects on a monthly basis or as required.
• Collaborate closely with cross‑functional partners in Manufacturing, Quality, and Supply Chain to ensure smooth project transitions and alignment with business goals.
• Assist Product Management, Dealers, Sales, Marketing and Manufacturing with technical support.
• Mentor and develop a team of Chemists, providing technical guidance, performance feedback, and career development support.
• Stay current with emerging technologies, industry trends, and best practices to strengthen the R&D pipeline and drive continuous improvement.
• Work with Universities and Contract Research Organizations (CROs) to develop clinical trial and other product support data.
• Develop data to support registration of new products (EPA and other international markets).
• Adhere to all Company Safety Programs, Rules and Regulations, and Employee Procedural Guidelines.

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in chemistry, or Chemical Engineering.
• Approximately 10 years of experience in chemical R&D, product development, or process development.
• 2+ years of experience managing a team of Research Chemists.
• Experience managing or mentoring direct reports, including workload planning and performance development.
• Demonstrated success leading complex scientific projects with measurable outcomes.
• Proven track record of identifying and implementing cost‑saving or efficiency‑driven improvements.
• Strong problem‑solving skills with the ability to translate experimental data into actionable insights.
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to present technical information to both scientific and non‑technical audiences.
• Ability to thrive in a fast‑paced environment and manage multiple priorities effectively.

• Ability to lead complex scientific projects and deliver measurable results within established timelines.
• Strong knowledge of chemistry principles, theories, wet chemistry and laboratory techniques.
• Proficiency in designing and executing experiments, as well as analyzing and interpreting data.
• Ability to mentor and develop a high-performing team while fostering a collaborative and accountable work environment.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail to maintain accurate records and documentation.
• Ability to read, analyze, and interpret general business periodicals, professional journals, technical procedures, or governmental regulations.
• Ability to use Microsoft Office, with emphasis on Excel and Word for research reports and matrices.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills to collaborate with team members and stakeholders.
• Experience with AI…