Research & Development; R&D​/Product Development Scientist

Research & Development / Product Development Scientist

Performance Pet Products - Mitchell, SD 57301

Level Experienced Position Type Full Time Job Shift 1st (Day Shift) Travel Percentage None Category Quality Assurance

Farmers Union Industries, LLC, also known as FUI, is a leading agricultural-based manufacturing company headquartered in Redwood Falls, MN. Our current operations include Central Bi-Products, Northland Choice, Midwest Grease, Artex Manufacturing, Redwood Farms Meat Processors, and Performance Pet Products. Please visit our website at  to learn more!

Performance Pet, located in Mitchell, SD, works with brands both large and small to create an assortment of canned dog and cat foods. Learn more about what we do at

We are currently accepting applications for the brand-new position of Research & Development / Product Development Scientist! We offer a competitive salary and a benefits package that includes health, dental, vision, PTO, paid holidays, an impressive 401K match, and much more!

Schedule

Monday-Friday, 7:00am-4:30pm

Additional hours may be necessary on a required or voluntary basis

Areas of Accountability

All areas of accountability to be delivered with GRIT - our values of Generosity, Relationships, Integrity, and Teamwork

Product Development & Commercialization Process Improvement & Cost Optimization

Lead formulation and reformulation efforts for wet pet food products

Develop samples to support customer requests and commercialization efforts; revise samples, as requested

Evaluate ingredient/supplier alternatives and formulation adjustments to improve cost, quality, yield, and operational performance

Improve product appearance, texture, viscosity, palatability, and consistency

Ensure formulations and products meet AAFCO, FDA, FSMA, SQF, GMP, HACCP, and customer requirements

Reduce reliance on external formulation partners by building internal technical capability

Support shelf-life studies, product validation work, and packaging evaluations

Maintain organized records of formulations, testing, project timelines, and trial results

Partner with quality assurance to investigate product deviations, complaints, and process inconsistencies

Assist sales and operations during customer meetings, launches, and commercialization discussions

Work with operations to improve product consistency, process capability, and manufacturing efficiency

Maintain regular and predictable on-site attendance

Situations may arise that require employees to temporarily or permanently assume responsibility for tasks not specifically outlined in this job description. Employees may be requested to work additional hours and/or accommodate a heavier than normal workload.

Bachelor's degree in food, animal, or meat science, nutrition, chemistry, biology, or related field, preferred; associates degree with significant relevant work experience may be considered

3-7+ years of experience in pet or human food product development, formulation, commercialization, and/or process improvement

Experience with thermal processing, canned foods, meat systems, sauces, gravies, emulsions, or retort systems, preferred

Advanced written and verbal communication within a cross-functional team

Strong organizational skills with the ability to maintain accurate records

Ability to understand and operate basic computer systems and iPads; proficient in Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook

Ability to manage multiple projects, change priorities, and problem-solve

Ability to perform safety sensitive position

Ability to work in a facility that processes multiple proteins including beef, pork, chicken, turkey, fish, lamb, rabbit, kangaroo, and egg

Must be 18 years of age or older for insurance purposes

Stand and/or walk up to 80% of the workday

Occasionally lift heavy objects up to 50 pounds

Occasionally bend at the knees and/or waist in potentially awkward positions

Consistently turn and/or twist

Occasionally climb steps up to 10 feet and perform duties on an elevated surface

Ability to distinguish colors

Ability to work in an environment with extreme cold/hot, wet/slippery conditions, and/or loud noise levels