Food Technologist

Ventura Foods • Brea, CA

7d • $76,123 - $96,716 • Hybrid

About The Position

The Food Technologist, Development Services is responsible for supporting the communication and release of technical documentation for formulae, ingredients and finished products, under minimal supervision. As a Development Services resource, the Food Technologist provides technical documentation, ingredient, sensory and analytical specifications evaluation support, to R&D Developers, Quality, Procurement, Operations, Process Team, FST, Project Coordinators and other internal & external stakeholders to ensure correct, consistent, complete and timely release of technical information. As a Development Services Subject Matter Expert (SME), the Food Technologist leverages knowledge in formula design, sensory and analytical testing, products and specifications to support commercialization scale-up opportunities that effectively result in attainment of company financial goals. The Food Technologist, Development Services represents the company externally in Trade Associations committees and at industry conferences and events.

Requirements

• Bachelor of Science Degree in Food Science or related field, Biology, Chemistry or equivalent experience and 0-5 years food laboratory experience required.
• Experience in a food manufacturing or processing environment.
• Basic understanding of formula design (emulsion, flavors, spices, process technology and ingredient interactions).
• Organization, project management, ability to multi-task and effective written and verbal communication skills are required
• Must have general understanding of food codes and regulatory guidelines and the ability to research regulatory matters as needed
• Highly motivated, collaborative, self-directed and self-starter team player.
• Knowledge of Microsoft Office, R&D Project Systems (PCS, ORP), Legacy and JD Edwards software, and future PLM software.
• Proficient knowledge of MS Excel is a MUST.

Nice To Haves

• Six Sigma Certification and working knowledge of MicroStrategy preferred.

Responsibilities

• Maintains proper documentation in MS Teams and project platforms (SharePoint, Ops Portal, PCS, JDE, AS400, Material Spec Database) including ingredient shelf-life extension, ingredient variance, spec maintenance request, and other ingredient related Commercial requests.
• Under minimal supervision, leverages technical knowledge of formula design, systems and processes to review, assemble and execute correct and timely release of Technical Documentation across departments and plants, to include sensory and analytical specifications evaluation reports for ingredients and products.
• With minimal assistance, designs, conducts, interprets and reports research on projects. Provides guidance and training to execute basic sensory test – shelf-life determination, difference, and preference test.
• Works cross-functionally and collaboratively with R&D, Culinary, Plant QA, HQ QA, Project Coordinators, PCS Manager and MDM to prioritize, manage and maintain accurate technical information and supports Operations Team by reviewing ingredients for shelf-life extensions, ingredient variances and substitutions.
• Innovates to grow by supporting continuous enhancement, training and implementation of R&D templates, portals, policies and procedures to continually improve R&D processes and systems.
• Performs departmental housekeeping as required, including lab organization and ordering supplies necessary for completion of projects.
• Executes other Development Services duties to ensure that the Company’s overall business initiatives are accomplished.

Benefits

• Medical, Prescription, Dental, & Vision – coverage beginning on your 1st day for eligible employees
• Profit Sharing and 401(k) matching (after eligible criteria is met)
• Paid Vacation, Sick Time, and Holidays
• Employee Appreciation Events
• Employee Assistance Programs

What This Job Offers

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