Food Scientist – Senior Scientist, Flavor Analytical

Food Scientist – Senior Scientist, Flavor Analytical

Location:

East Hanover, NJ 07936 Pay Rate: $40.00–$43.48/hour

Schedule:

Monday–Friday, 9:00 AM–4:00 PM Duration: 6 month contract, potential for extension

The Senior Scientist – Flavor Analytical supports flavor research and product development within the Biscuit and Baked Snacks category. This role focuses on establishing and expanding in-house flavor analytical capabilities, including the setup of new Solid-Phase Microextraction (SPME) and Gas Chromatography (GC) equipment.

The Senior Scientist will develop and validate analytical methods, conduct untargeted flavor analysis across a variety of food matrices, identify and quantify aroma compounds, interpret complex analytical data, and communicate findings to technical and cross-functional teams.

• Set up, install, calibrate, and support new SPME and GC analytical equipment in collaboration with internal teams and equipment vendors.
• Develop, validate, and execute analytical methods for untargeted flavor analysis across a variety of food matrices.
• Perform LC, GC, and GC-MS testing to isolate, concentrate, identify, and quantify potent aroma compounds.
• Prepare samples using techniques such as Solid-Phase Microextraction (SPME).
• Analyze complex chromatographic data using analytical software and perform quality assurance checks.
• Interpret analytical results and provide technical recommendations based on findings.
• Plan and lead bench-top experiments and laboratory trials in accordance with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP).
• Prepare technical reports and clearly communicate analytical findings to both technical and non-technical audiences.
• Partner with flavor research, product development, and cross-functional teams to test scientific hypotheses and guide project decisions.
• Maintain productive relationships with instrument manufacturers, vendors, and external technical partners.
• Follow laboratory safety procedures, quality systems, and applicable policies while maintaining a clean and organized work environment.
• Develop and execute project plans under manager guidance, providing regular progress updates and identifying potential risks or issues.

• 5+ years of professional analytical laboratory experience preferred.
• Hands-on experience with Liquid Chromatography (LC), Gas Chromatography (GC), and Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS).
• Experience using chromatographic data analysis software.
• Experience with flavor analysis, aroma compound identification or isolation, and sample preparation techniques such as SPME.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and data interpretation skills.
• Ability to manage multiple analytical projects and meet deadlines in a laboratory environment.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional technical teams and external partners.

• Bachelor of Science degree in Food Science, Chemistry, or a related scientific discipline from an accredited college or university required.
• Equivalent professional analytical experience may be considered where applicable.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran. Rate of pay within the stated range will depend on the qualifications of the applicant.