Food Science Associate

Louis Dreyfus Company • Livermore, CA

2d • Hybrid

About The Position

The Food Science Associate works on the characterization of plant proteins and other food ingredients and supports development of plant-based food and beverage products. This role involves taking responsibility for planning and executing experiments and/or sensory trials, leading activities within cross-functional projects, presenting data and collaborating closely with research, analytical, engineering and product development teams.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in food science, protein chemistry, biochemistry, chemical engineering, chemistry, biology, or a related field with 2+ years of experience.
• Alternatively, Associate in Science, Food Science and Technology or related field degree with 4+ years of relevant food industry experience.
• Experience in methods and equipment used to assess protein physicochemical and functional properties
• Capacity to work independently
• Experience in prototyping or product development
• Experience in sensory evaluation tools
• Experience in SOP and R&D report writing
• Data reporting and presentation
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Proficiency with spreadsheet and word-processing software (e.g., Excel, Word, PowerPoint).
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to prioritize multiple tasks to meet strict monthly deadlines.
• Proactively approaches job duties and potential problems.
• Detail oriented with strong organizational and documentation skills.
• Laboratory etiquette & skills.

Nice To Haves

• Experience in methods and equipment used to assess starch, fiber and hydrocolloid physicochemical and functional properties
• Experience in LIMS and ELN
• Experience in AI tools
• Knowledge in food ingredient chemistry.

Responsibilities

• Take responsibility to elaborate approach and execute trials by being given general direction.
• Lead activities within cross-functional projects.
• Conduct experiments to characterize and evaluate functional properties of proteins and other food ingredients and validate performance in adequate model formulations.
• Develop and/or optimize characterization methods and model recipes based on literature and/or experience and write SOPs.
• Capture, analyze and present results to colleagues and stake holders.
• Support food and beverage product development on the kitchen and the pilot plant scale.
• Give technical support to commercial team and customers.
• Ensure all the results are reported in a quality and timely manner.
• Carry out basic troubleshooting of used equipment.
• Keep order and hygiene in all areas.
• Practice LDC’s safety standards at all times.
• Support innovation pipeline, business case development, and IP filings.
• Contribute to training and capability building.
• Attend Ingredient shows and host the Plant Protein booth, engage with customers, support commercial efforts.
• Other duties as assigned by management.

Benefits

• Comprehensive benefits program including medical, dental and vision care coverage, flexible spending account plans, employee assistance program, life insurance and disability coverage
• 401k with Company Match
• Family Friendly Benefits including childbirth and parental leave, fertility and family building benefits
• Paid Time Off (PTO) and Paid Holidays

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level