Associate Food Scientist, Research and Development

Associate Food Scientist, Research and Development

White Bear Lake, MN

May 20, 2026

$74K - $97K

At Saputo, we bring good to the table by making high-quality products, investing in our people, and supporting communities around the world. As a top 10 global dairy processor, we value contributions that matter and strive to foster an inclusive, growth‑driven work environment. Ready to bring your best?

How you will make contributions that matter...

• Manage formula development software in preparation of benchtop and pilot plant samples. Optimize ingredients used in formulations for cost and functionality. Execute laboratory best practices including accurately weigh and measure raw ingredients for batching new and current formulas as well as managing the process temperature and batching procedures.
• Lead operation of pilot scale dairy manufacturing equipment (including direct/indirect steam processors, homogenizers, fillers, liquefiers) to produce samples for customers reviews and internal testing. Drive recommendations to product development team on how to improve product flavor or functionality.
• Lead management of pilot scale dairy equipment through weekly preventative maintenance, including cleaning and parts replacement.
• Troubleshoot production issues or variances identified with all manufacturing equipment. Provide recommendations on solutions that will lead to the desired product outcomes.

• Manage inventory of ingredients and lab supplies, responsible for ordering supplies for laboratory and keep a clean and orderly work environment.
• Execute shelf‑life testing of various dairy products, including finished product performance, microbiological and sensory evaluation. Translate results into recommendations that manages risk. Maintain laboratory, testing, and performance equipment.
• Lead all shipping/receiving related to ingredients and customer samples and ingredients.

• Write technical reports on product evaluations, shelf‑life testing and competitive analysis.
• Develop recipes for new products for specific business needs. Modify current recipes to meet application requirements and provide sales/marketing/operations with specifications needed to make and sell the new product. Interpret test results and translate into possible solutions.
• Plan, run, and monitor plant trials, and conduct plant trials. Document findings and share trial reports with key stakeholders.
• Cultivate and develop vendor relationships to secure the necessary ingredients and new technologies needed to meet business objectives.
• Partner with cross functional partners (Marketing, Sales, Operations, Supply Chain, etc.) to ensure an efficient and successful product launch or enhancement of new or existing products. Manage portions of the execution that are related to product formulation or production processes. Lead new product development and supports current product improvement.
• Write technical reports on product evaluations, shelf‑life testing and competitive analysis.
• Demonstrate awareness of the field of intellectual property.

• Education:
  
  Preferred Bachelor of Science Degree in Food Science, Biology, Dairy Science or related discipline or Associate degree with relevant experience. Master’s degree a plus.
• Experience:
  
  2-3 years’ experience in food industry. Dairy, beverage, or cultured products experience a plus.
• Successful track record and proven experience in product/process development from plant trials to successful execution to market.
• Result oriented with strong passion for creativity and innovation within a complex driven environment.
• Dynamic, flexible, proactive approach and ability to work effectively in high‑pressure situations within strict deadlines.
• Strives for high standards, seeks innovative solutions, drives continuous improvement of ingredients, semi‑finished and finish products, processes and demonstrates a high degree of attention to detail.
• Strong interpersonal skills with ability to influence with integrity through persuasive communication to win support at senior levels within R&D and across various functional areas.
• Strong people and project management skills to effectively and…