Principal Food Scientist
About The Position
This position is responsible for leading ingredient technology initiatives, including identification of new ingredient concepts or platforms, validation of new concepts or technologies at the bench and plant, and application development in food systems. At Ajinomoto Health & Nutrition, we are making significant advances in food and health with new ideas and innovative technologies. We are seeking candidates with energy and enthusiasm to be part of our growing team throughout North America. As an Ajinomoto Health & Nutrition employee, you are part of a diverse, innovative, and collaborative community committed to enhancing lives through nutrition and health. Our team is committed to providing amino acid-based solutions that create better lives for all. We do not use AI to screen applications. Applications and resumes of qualified applicants are reviewed by a real person because we value your time and believe each qualified applicant deserves thoughtful, human consideration. It’s an old‑fashioned approach—done with purpose.
Requirements
- The successful candidate will have a PhD and 2-5 years of industrial experience, or a MS degree with 5-15 years of industrial experience, or a BS degree with 8-20 years of industrial experience
- BS, MS or PhD in Food Science, Biochemistry, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a related field of study
- Has specialized depth and/or breadth of expertise in own discipline or function
- Interprets internal or external issues and recommends solutions/best practices
- Self-motivated, independently directed
- Good interpersonal skills and ability to work cooperatively in a team environment
- Knowledge of scientific and technical aspects of the operation
- Must be able to transfer scientific knowledge to practical applications
- Good oral and written communication and computer skills
- Able to manage time effectively to meet deadlines and adjust quickly to changes in priorities
- Must be able to lift 25 pounds
- Willing to work extended hours if required
- Willing to conduct work travel
- Must be safety oriented
Responsibilities
- Apply advanced technical expertise in ingredient technology to identify, scope, design, validate and commercialize new ingredient technologies with application across a broad range of food systems
- Create, oversee and execute research programs to advance understanding of existing ingredient portfolio.
- Apply learnings to drive ingredient innovation or expand solutions portfolio
- Work with cross-functional team members (marketing, sales, technical services, culinary, etc.) to identify new ingredient solution platforms that align with industry trends (e.g., clean label) and customer challenges.
- Apply technical expertise to advance initiatives that drive new business
- Develop and foster relationships with contacts in the food industry, identify and take advantage of opportunities for leadership roles in the food science community, act as a technical spokesperson for the Ajinomoto brand through external speaking engagements, media interviews, and related activities
- Identify and develop strong partnerships with internal global experts as well as external experts/organizations to develop or advance new ingredient technologies.
- Assess technology applicability in key product categories (e.g., plant-based, beverages, etc.) and deliver proven solutions to drive business growth
- Perform economic evaluations for new ingredient technologies to demonstrate compelling value propositions and a commercial case for new technologies and products
- Participate in sensory evaluation activities, both formally on sensory panels and informally, helping other technical personnel with their work
- Be a coach and technical mentor/role model for more junior product developers, scientists, and technicians
- Documents processes, formulas, ingredients, and results related to production tests, samples, and product evaluations consistent with Ajinomoto standard operating procedures
- Perform all work in accordance with Ajinomoto GMP, Allergen, and Quality Programs, and participate in annual training for these programs
- Interview prospective employees
- Train employees
- Lead teams for special projects
Benefits
- Competitive Pay and Annual Bonus Opportunity
- 401(k) with Company Contributions
- Medical, Dental, and Vision — Effective Day 1
- Paid Time Off, Company Holidays, and Floating Holidays
- Paid Parental Leave
- Wellness Programs and Yearly Wellness Reimbursement
- Work Flexibility
- Company-Paid Life and Disability Insurance
- Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
- Tuition Reimbursement Opportunities
- Career Growth and Development within a Global Organization
- Company-Provided Mental Health and Caregiving support
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Senior
Education Level
Ph.D. or professional degree
