Scientist, Research Scientist

About the Role

We are seeking a passionate and technically skilled Dairy Scientist to join our R&D team. In this role, you will leverage your expertise in dairy science, food technology, microbiology or related fields to develop, optimize, and support innovative dairy products and solutions. You will collaborate closely with cross‑functional teams—including product development, process engineering, and commercial teams—to deliver high‑quality, market‑leading dairy flavors.

• Develop and optimize flavor formulations for a variety of dairy products (e.g., yogurt, cheese, beverages, desserts) using cultures, enzymes, materials and processes.
• Lead application trials and pilot plant runs to validate new concepts and processes.
• Collaborate with customers and internal teams to understand requirements and deliver tailored solutions.
• Troubleshoot formulation and processing challenges, providing technical support to internal stakeholders and customers.
• Stay current with industry trends, new ingredients, and processing technologies relevant to dairy applications.
• Document and communicate findings, protocols, and recommendations clearly and effectively.
• Support commercialization efforts by scaling up successful prototypes and assisting with plant trials.
• Ensure all work complies with food safety, quality, and regulatory standards.

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Food Science, Dairy Science, Chemical Engineering, Microbiology or a related field.
• 3+ years of experience in dairy product development or applications (internships and co‑ops considered).
• Strong knowledge of dairy ingredients, processing technologies, and product functionality.
• Hands‑on experience with pilot plant equipment and laboratory analysis.
• Excellent problem‑solving skills and attention to detail.
• Strong communication and teamwork abilities.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and adapt to changing priorities.
• Willingness to travel as needed (up to 20%).
• Experience working directly with customers or in a B2B environment.
• Familiarity with regulatory requirements for dairy products.

The pay range for this position is $91,311 to $149,080 in annual salary.

Kerry offers a competitive benefits package, including medical, dental, vision, paid time off, a 401(k) plan with employee and company contribution opportunities, Employee Share Plan, life, disability, and accident insurance, and tuition reimbursement.

Kerry is an equal opportunity employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, national or ethnic origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, disability, protected veteran status or other characteristics protected by law. Kerry will only employ those who are legally authorized to work in the United States for this opening. Any offer of employment is conditional upon the successful completion of a background investigation and drug screen.

Additional information can be found at Know Your Rights Workplace Discrimination is Illegal (dol.gov).