Senior Food Technologist – Meat Systems; R&D

Location: St. Charles, IL

Pay: $70k to 105k (+ bonus potential + annual merit increases)

Schedule: Onsite Daily

* Relocation Package Available

Senior Research & Development Technologist leading in-plant experiments that drive innovation in packaging, equipment, product development, and process optimization, while providing technical expertise that strengthens product quality, compliance, and operational efficiency.

• Independently design, plan, and execute experiments, then analyze results and report findings on assigned projects.
• Lead in-plant trials supporting packaging, equipment, product development, and process improvements aligned with customer needs and quality standards.
• Provide technical guidance to plant QA and operations teams on food quality, chemistry, and production issues.
• Optimize ingredients and formulations to improve product performance and identify cost-saving opportunities.
• Partner with operations on food safety and product development research while staying current on industry and scientific advancements.
• Ensure compliance with U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulations, including standards of identity, ingredients, nutrition labeling, and label claims.

• Bachelor's degree in Food Science or a related field plus 5+ years of meat processing plant experience (Master's degree preferred)
• Strong knowledge of meat science, including non-meat ingredients and their functionality in processed meats
• Experience with experimental design and statistical analysis
• Ability to conduct applied research in both lab and red meat processing environments
• Strong communication skills with both technical and non-technical audiences, from plant teams to executives and customers
• Ability to travel up to 40%
• Peer-reviewed publications in meat quality are a plus

• Growth potential
• Stability in the industry
• Relocation package available
• Excellent company benefits offered