R&D Technologist

Role Summary
This position is a mid-level research and development (R&D) Food Technologist responsible for supporting product innovation and process improvement initiatives. Reporting to the Vice President of Research & Development, the role involves applying scientific principles and food science expertise to develop new products, optimize existing formulations, and ensure quality standards are met. The Food Technologist collaborates across departments to enhance product profiles and streamline manufacturing processes.

Responsibilities

• Conduct research on new ingredients and develop innovative food products, including sauces, marinades, glazes, batters, and breadings.
• Modify formulation of current products to improve quality, flavor, texture, nutritional profile, or cost efficiency.
• Perform physical and chemical analyses on food ingredients and finished products to ensure compliance with specifications.
• Develop product, process, and packaging specifications for new and existing food items.
• Study methods to improve sensory attributes and physical, chemical, and microbiological qualities of food products.
• Test prototypes in laboratory and pilot plant environments, developing processing methods for scale-up.
• Oversee product scale-up, pilot testing, and the commissioning of new products into production.
• Set operational process conditions and establish FSQA parameters for manufacturing.
• Analyze operational data to finalize product formulations and process parameters for commercial production.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure continuous improvement in product quality and process efficiency.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Food Science, Food Technology, or a related science field from an accredited institution.
• Prior experience in food industry research, laboratory testing, or product development preferred.
• Strong understanding of food processing, formulation, and quality control principles.
• Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a team environment, balancing individual responsibilities with team objectives.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with attention to detail.
• Availability to work on-site in Van Buren, AR.
• In compliance with federal law, all persons hired must verify their identity and eligibility to work in the United States and complete the required employment eligibility verification form upon hire. Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the United States.
• Willingness to work with ingredients containing common allergens as part of daily duties.

Publishing Pay Range: $65,000.00 - $75,000.00 Annually

This position is based in office and requires employee to work on-site.