Principal Food Scientist

Ajinomoto Health & Nutrition North America•Itasca, IL

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.

Requirements

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