Food Scientist, Crops

Government of Alberta•Leduc, AB

4d•CA$85,181 - CA$112,227•Onsite

About The Position

The Ministry of Agriculture and Irrigation is responsible for the policies, legislation, regulations, programs, and services that enable Alberta’s agriculture and food sectors to flourish and contribute to Alberta’s economic recovery and growth. The ministry’s role is diverse, ranging from food safety and industry growth and diversification to increasing investment and supporting growth in rural Alberta. The ministry also supports foundational programs like irrigation and agricultural societies that help create strong rural communities and resilient agriculture sectors. The Trade, Investment and Food Safety Division (TIFS) expands and diversifies Alberta’s food and bio-product manufacturing sector in local and global markets while also providing effective food safety assurance systems. The Food and Bio-Processing Branch (FBPB) provides scientific and technical expertise, business development services and specialized facilities to support product/process development, scale up and commercialization of food and non-food products for companies serving local, national, and global markets. The Alberta Food Centre (AFC) is dedicated to fostering the growth and commercialization of innovative food products and ingredients unique to Alberta. By supporting local food companies in developing market-responsive products, the AFC plays a pivotal role in advancing Alberta's agriculture and food processing industries both locally and globally. Are you ready to use your expertise in food science and crop-based product and/or process development to advance Alberta’s value-added agriculture industry? Join us as a Crops Scientist, where you will provide leadership in the development and commercialization of innovative, market-responsive ingredients, food and beverage products, and processes. This role focuses on crop-based value-added products, including grains, pulses, oilseeds, vegetables, and small fruits grown in Alberta. You will collaborate with industry partners, academic researchers, and government colleagues to translate scientific knowledge into commercial success while supporting the growth of Alberta’s food processing industry.

Requirements

Ph.D. in a scientific discipline such as Food Science, Food and Nutrition, Chemistry, Processing Engineering or related, plus 2 years progressively responsible related experience in value added processing related to crops; or equivalent as described below.
Master’s degree, in a scientific discipline related to the position such as Food Science, Food and Nutrition, Chemistry, or Processing Engineering, plus 4 years related experience in value added processing related to crops; or
University graduation in Food Science, Food and Nutrition, Chemistry, or Processing Engineering, plus 6 years related experience in value added processing related to crops.
Advanced knowledge of crop processing technologies and value-added food processing for grains, pulses, oilseeds, vegetables, and fruits grown in Canada.
Expertise in plant-based ingredient extraction, fractionation, and functionality, including plant proteins, starches, and fibers.
Strong background in food chemistry, microbiology, food engineering, and scientific research principles.
Knowledge of analytical techniques for assessing physicochemical, functional, and rheological properties of ingredients.
Operate a wide range of laboratory and commercial processing equipment.
Possess a current Alberta Driver's License.

Nice To Haves

Familiarity with food policy, regulations (e.g., Safe Food for Canadians Regulations), and principles of HACCP (Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points).
Awareness of global trends in agriculture and food industries, as well as ongoing research worldwide.
Understanding of Alberta’s food processing industry and individual processors operating within the province.

Responsibilities

Leading the development of innovative, value-added food and beverage products, with a focus on processed crops and plant-based food ingredients like proteins, starches, fibers, and oils.
Designing and conducting food product and process development projects in labs, a pilot plant, and commercial facilities.
Identifying market opportunities and consumer trends through market intelligence and industry collaboration.
Providing technical consultation and training to food processors and stakeholders.
Supporting industry-led research by planning and executing provincial-scale projects that promote economic development and competitiveness in Alberta’s agri-food sector.
Establishing partnerships with processors, suppliers, research institutions, and other stakeholders to foster innovation and value chain opportunities.
Staying current on global trends, technologies, and regulatory standards to ensure Alberta’s agri-food industry remains competitive.
Participating in occupational health and safety activities to ensure a safe work environment.