Jr. R&D Process Engineer

Actus Nutrition•Eden Prairie, MN

3d•$80,000 - $90,000

About The Position

At Actus Nutrition, our focus is to create high-quality ingredients designed to optimize health and nutrition. We are passionate and dedicated people. Each day, we collectively explore new, innovative ways to enhance product performance and value through our broad human and animal nutrition portfolios. The human nutrition division focuses on industry leading whey and milk protein isolates, concentrates, and hydrolysates. The animal nutrition division is a leading supplier of functional fats, proteins and carbohydrates. Both divisions are backed by the speed, execution and passion it takes to exceed the expectation of our customers. The Jr. R&D Process Engineer is responsible for specific projects that include trial support at our manufacturing facilities, process optimization for ingredients, gathering samples, and testing. This role focuses on driving improvements in process efficiency, product quality, and functionality. The position partners closely with Operations, Quality, R&D, and Engineering to ensure processes are optimized, compliant, and aligned with business and customer objectives.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in chemical engineering, food science, dairy processing or related field
2-3 years of experience in dairy or food processing
Knowledge of Whey Protein Manufacturing Operations
Strong Analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to identify and troubleshoot process issues
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to collaborate effectively with cross functional teams
Experience with regulatory compliance and quality controls standards

Responsibilities

Aid in trial support at manufacturing facilities by obtaining samples, collecting data, and draft report findings
Support the optimization of specialty protein manufacturing processes, ensuring performance aligns with company strategy, regulatory requirements, and customer quality expectations
Plan, design, and execute process improvement initiatives focused on quality compliance, operational efficiency, and cost reduction
Monitor critical process parameters, analyze performance data, troubleshoot process variability, and implement corrective and preventive actions
Develop, improve, and standardize process documentation, including SOPs and best practice guidelines, to support operational consistency and regulatory compliance
Partner with production, quality, R&D, and engineering teams to design and implement sustainable process improvements
Analyze and report on process performance metrics such as yield, efficiency, throughput, and quality trends; communicate findings and recommendations to leadership
Stay current on emerging processing technologies and industry best practices, recommending and supporting the adoption of new technologies where appropriate
Provide R & D Project Support, perform special projects and other responsibilities as needed.