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 — A 7% 401(k) employer match helps grow your retirement savings faster
• Keep learning — Tuition reimbursement to further your education or skillset
• Live well — Wellness incentive program rewards healthy habits
• Get support when you need it — Access to a confidential Employee Assistance Program for personal or professional 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 identify improvements
• Identify and implement cost‑saving strategies, including raw material optimization, workflow efficiencies, and improved experimental approaches
• Report on all projects monthly 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 to generate research reports
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills to effectively collaborate…