R&D Ops & Meas Sci Junior Scientist

PepsiCo • Plano, TX

1d • $54,700 - $82,050 • Onsite

About The Position

This position is located at PepsiCo’s Plano Global R&D facility and is part of the Measurement Sciences (Analytical & QA Sciences) team. The scientist analyzes biopolymer-associated compounds—including dietary fiber, starches and sugars, protein, and related components—in support of PepsiCo R&D and operations groups.

The role is hands-on and execution-focused, with labor-intensive sample preparation and high-throughput analytical workflows. Its primary focus is accurately determining dietary fiber and starch/sugar content for targeted analytes using established preparation processes, standardized methods, routine equipment operation, and data collection and interpretation. The role also involves instrument troubleshooting and recording and reporting data to management and the laboratory information management system (LIMS).

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in chemistry, analytical chemistry, food science, material science, or a related discipline.
• At least 2 years of experience in a laboratory environment.
• Basic understanding of food nutrients such as fiber, protein, and oil.
• Detail-oriented and results-driven, with strong attention to accuracy and the ability to prioritize tasks and deliver accurate results within required timelines.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Familiarity with Microsoft 365, including Microsoft Excel and Word.
• Ability to learn new techniques and adapt to new ways of working, especially digital platforms such as LabVantage.
• Experience with Good Lab Practices and a strong understanding of hazardous chemicals to support laboratory safety.
• Strong organizational skills and ability to maintain neat, orderly, and complete records.

Nice To Haves

• Liquid chromatography (LC) operation experience.

Responsibilities

• Perform high-volume, labor-intensive fiber analysis using instruments at full capacity, independently managing two parallel fiber analysis runs per day across two instruments.
• Prepare and maintain chemicals, solutions, and equipment needed for analyses.
• Follow standard operating procedures to determine dietary fiber, protein, ash, fat, and moisture contents.
• Coordinate testing activities, sample preparation, and sample shipments with third-party laboratories.
• Design, develop, troubleshoot, and validate analytical methods following AOAC-approved methodologies and industry best practices.
• Document testing data in appropriate online systems or programs and communicate results accurately and promptly.
• Organize and purge samples regularly.
• Follow Good Lab Practices and established processes to support laboratory safety, instrument performance, and data quality.
• Assist managers with smooth laboratory operations, including laboratory safety audits.
• Troubleshoot instruments and record and report data to management and LIMS.

Benefits

• Paid time off subject to eligibility, including paid parental leave, vacation, sick, and bereavement leave.
• Medical, dental, and vision benefits, subject to elections and eligibility.
• Disability benefits.
• Health and dependent care reimbursement accounts.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP).
• Accident, group legal, and life insurance.
• Defined Contribution Retirement Plan.

What This Job Offers

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