Product Development Scientist

Balchem - New Hampton, IA

Full-time - Entry Level

New Hampton, IA

1,001-5,000 employees

Chemical Manufacturing

About the position

The Product Development Engineer at Balchem Corporation plays a crucial role in the R&D Group, focusing on Food Encapsulation Technology. This position involves developing new formulations and processes for microencapsulated ingredients aimed at the Human Health & Nutrition markets. The engineer will collaborate with various departments, including manufacturing and quality, to ensure effective transitions from lab to commercial production. This role requires both strategic and tactical skills, with responsibilities ranging from hands-on experimentation to project management.

Responsibilities

• Work safely and enforce safety policies, demonstrating safe behaviors and use of PPE.
• Follow GMP protocols and ensure product compliance with regulatory bodies like the FDA.
• Guide the manufacturing of ingredients using proprietary encapsulation technology.
• Lead product development efforts in formulation, application, and process development.
• Coordinate application testing of ingredients and compile data for presentations to stakeholders.
• Act as a Technical Project Leader or team member in product development.
• Create experimental designs, run technical experiments, and analyze data.
• Collaborate with Manufacturing, Quality, and Supply Chain to develop product solutions.
• Conduct hands-on pilot scale trials and support pilot plant operations.
• Write detailed manufacturing instructions and specifications for operations.
• Participate in scale-up trials and troubleshoot production problems.
• Maintain documentation for project work and assist in patent filings.
• Prepare presentations and reports to communicate results to stakeholders.
• Ensure compliance with regulatory requirements and perform other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• BS degree in Food Science, Chemical Engineering, or related technical field required.
• 2-4 years of industrial experience in process or product development preferred, but entry-level candidates will be considered.
• Excellent communication, influencing, and problem-solving skills.
• Highly self-motivated and able to manage multiple tasks efficiently in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to apply scientific principles to new situations and exhibit a collaborative mindset.

Nice-to-haves

• Experience with Minitab, Microsoft Dynamics 365, and Six Sigma is a plus.
• Knowledge of food and dietary supplement cGMPs preferred.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and performance bonuses.
• Health insurance coverage.
• 401k retirement savings plan with company matching.
• Paid time off and holidays.
• Opportunities for professional development and continued education.