Flavor Science Associate Scientist

PepsiCo•Town of Mount Pleasant, NY

4d•$73,600 - $123,150

About The Position

PepsiCo is seeking a highly motivated and detail-oriented Flavor Specification Scientist to join the R&D Technical Brand Stewardship Flavor Specifications team. This role provides an opportunity to develop expertise in flavor science, flavor chemistry, and ingredient specifications while supporting the development and commercialization of innovative beverage products. The successful candidate will partner with flavor suppliers and cross-functional teams to create new ingredient specifications that support innovation across PepsiCo brands. This position offers hands-on exposure to flavor chemistry, analytical chemistry techniques, ingredient quality systems, and regulatory requirements while building a strong foundation in flavor science.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in food science, Chemistry, Flavor Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or related scientific field.
Knowledge of analytical techniques, including GC-FID, GC-MS, and supporting software such as Agilent Mass Hunter.
Strong understanding of chemistry and ingredient functionality.
Excellent attention to detail and ability to manage complex documentation.
Strong communication and stakeholder management skills.
Strong technical curiosity and drive to continuously expand flavor and chemistry knowledge.
Ability to balance scientific rigor with business priorities.
Effective collaboration across cross-functional teams and external partners.
High level of organization, accountability, and execution.

Responsibilities

Generate fit-for-purpose specifications by applying flavor system expertise.
Create technical specifications in accordance with global ingredient standards
Lead the end-to-end specification development process through collaboration with internal and external stakeholders to drive spec completion and meet deadlines.
Coordinate raw material testing to qualify new materials
Research flavor systems and apply learnings to create fit-for-purpose flavor raw material specifications.
Evaluate materials and recommend analytical methodologies for raw material acceptance criteria
Research flavor chemistry and marker compounds to support specification development.
Leverage results from a variety of analytical techniques, including GC-MS, GC-FID, RI, and SG to generate material insights
Consult SMEs, FCC & JECFA monographs, and other applicable resources to ensure regulatory compliance.
Maintain shared worklists and tracking tools to support prioritization and stakeholder alignment.
Contribute to process improvements and best practices within the specification function
Perform sensory evaluations as need to support business activities.