Senior Food Scientist

About the Role
We are seeking a highly experienced Senior Food Scientist to lead cutting-edge food and beverage innovation projects. This position is ideal for a technically advanced professional with deep expertise in materials science, animal protein systems, and process engineering, including snack food extrusion and confectionery development. You will be instrumental in driving new product development from concept to commercialization while ensuring scientific excellence, sustainability, and consumer appeal. This is a key technical leadership role for someone passionate about creating the next generation of food products.

Responsibilities:

• Lead formulation, development, and scale-up of innovative food and beverage products, focusing on animal protein and ingredient functionality
• Serve as a subject matter expert in materials science, food structure, and process engineering
• Design and execute complex experiments, conduct data analysis, and apply scientific principles to improve product performance and scalability
• Manage multiple R&D projects with cross-functional teams, ensuring timelines, budgets, and quality standards are met
• Drive product innovation aligned with strategic goals, emphasizing taste, nutrition, sustainability, and manufacturability
• Conduct competitive benchmarking and sensory evaluations to guide product direction
• Oversee technical documentation, formulation records, and regulatory compliance
• Mentor junior scientists and support a culture of collaboration and continuous learning

Qualifications:

• Masters or Ph.D. in Food Science, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, or a related field
• 812 years of experience in food product development, preferably with animal protein and advanced processing experience
• Deep understanding of food ingredient functionality, including proteins, hydrocolloids, starches, and emulsifiers
• Proven track record of managing R&D projects from ideation through commercialization
• Hands-on experience with pilot plant equipment and lab-scale food processing
• Excellent problem-solving, organizational, and communication skills
• Experience working in a fast-paced, cross-functional environment

Desired Qualifications:

• Specialized expertise in snack food extrusion, confectionery science, or high-moisture protein systems
• Prior experience leading technical teams or external innovation partnerships
• Strong knowledge of food safety standards, shelf-life testing, and sensory science
• Ability to translate consumer insights and trends into product development strategies
• Familiarity with regulatory compliance in food labeling and claims

• Bonus'
• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance