Associate R&D Technologist

Smithfield Foods•Smithfield, VA

1d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Associate Research and Development Technologist plays a key role in driving innovation and efficiency within the company. This position supports research projects, documents critical findings, and contributes to cost optimization through formulation and processing improvements. The role is instrumental in creating cutting-edge product prototypes and shaping future development initiatives. Additionally, the Associate R&D Technologist is responsible for identifying and approving potential ingredient and manufacturing suppliers, ensuring high-quality standards and operational excellence.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree from an accredited four-year college or university in Food Science or related field, or equivalent combination of education and experience, required.
Strong scientific knowledge of meat, non-meat ingredients and their functionality.
Able to work with pilot plant equipment with minimal supervision.
Proficient in on-line work systems and product development software tools.
Continuously improves and updates food/meat science and product development skills and understands all aspects of current plant process systems.
Must have the ability to complete required applicable forms in English, which requires the ability to read and write in English.
Ability to multi-task; strong interpersonal, communication, organizational and time management skills.
May require travel up to 40% of the time.

Responsibilities

Support the development of new products and line extensions from bench-top concepts to full commercialization.
Conduct pilot plant tests and production trials to generate viable prototypes and refine formulations for improved product quality.
Collaborate with R&D team members on hands-on innovation and ensure successful product development.
Manage product formulations using an online database system, creating and adjusting recipes to meet development needs.
Maintain accurate project files, specifications, and key product data to ensure seamless documentation and formulation integrity.
Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including Business, Marketing, Sales, Manufacturing, and Engineering, to support product development efforts.
Document and organize product reviews through clear verbal and written communication, ensuring stakeholders are informed on project progress.
Improve product development skills through training, hands-on experience, and understanding USDA/FDA regulations.
Identify and approve potential ingredient and manufacturing suppliers.

Benefits

Robust, flexible and affordable benefit plans and programs
Medical plans with out-of-pocket costs, on average, 20 percent less than plans offered by other employers
Be Well programs offer tools and resources to enhance quality of life
Support for elective surgeries, weight loss, mental health, cancer, kidney disease, diabetes, smoking cessation, asthma, maternity management
Comprehensive training and professional development programs
LinkedIn Learning access for on-demand courses, professional certificates, and skill-based training
Tuition assistance covering English language learning, high school completion, and degree programs through partnership with Guild
Leadership development initiatives
Smithfield Scholarship Program for employees’ children
Education Reimbursement Program for GED/High School Equivalency (HSE) Diploma or academic degree at an accredited college or university