Principal Scientist, Scientific and Regulatory Affairs

Mars•Chicago, IL

3d•$119,040 - $163,680•Onsite

About The Position

The Principal Scientist, Scientific and Regulatory Affairs (SRA) for Trü Frü is the subject matter expert on US and Canadian ingredient, formula, claims, and labeling compliance for a growing portfolio of frozen and freeze-dried chocolate-covered fruit. This proactive regulatory leader identifies issues and opportunities affecting product development and marketing and partners with Product Development, Brand, Quality, and Operations to support innovation and maintain core products. The role translates complex technical information into clear recommendations and guides senior leaders with technical expertise, creativity, and efficiency in an agile, fast-paced organization. The position leads regulatory strategy, ensures product innovation complies with applicable US and Canadian requirements, and develops effective regulatory processes and systems that integrate with business project management. It also supports product positioning and claims substantiation, monitors regulatory developments and industry practices, evaluates risks, and aligns actionable recommendations with Quality, R&D, and Legal leaders. The role requires a bachelor's degree in a technical field and 10–15 years of experience in US and Canadian food regulatory compliance and affairs. The position may require travel up to 30%. The listed US base pay range is USD 119,040–163,680. Total compensation includes variable pay, medical and dental benefits, 401(k) plan participation, and paid time off.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in a technical area such as chemistry, nutrition, food science, or biology.
10–15 years of experience in US and Canadian food regulatory compliance and affairs.
Currently working in a food regulatory organization, ideally in a matrix role.
Expert knowledge of US and Canadian food regulations.
Demonstrated ability to influence through strong written and verbal communication.
Experience with a variety of food industry business models, regulatory systems, and product types.
Track record of thriving in complex, fast-paced, high-growth environments with a strategic mindset.
Willingness to travel up to 30%.

Nice To Haves

Experience working in a matrix role.

Responsibilities

Lead regulatory strategy and ensure product innovation complies with US and Canadian laws, regulations, and requirements affecting ingredients, formulas, nutrition, labeling, and marketing materials.
Establish and maintain efficient regulatory processes and systems integrated with business project management, identifying and implementing continuous improvements.
Guide product positioning and claims substantiation; collaborate with Quality, R&D, Legal, and Brand teams on creative solutions for complex claims that meet business needs.
Monitor US and Canadian regulatory activities, evaluate their impact, and assess industry best practices.
Evaluate regulatory risks, translate complex information into actionable options, align recommendations with Quality, R&D, and Legal leaders, and guide business leaders through complex situations.
Communicate regulatory expertise across organizational levels by clearly and concisely translating technical guidance.