R&D Scientist / Process Engineer - Food Preservation

Kerry•Beloit, WI

1d•$70,100 - $122,000•Onsite

About The Position

We are seeking a highly skilled scientist/engineer to lead the development of innovative preservation and freshness systems. This role is responsible for designing and optimizing fermentation-based and multi-process solutions that enhance food safety, extend shelf life, and meet evolving customer needs. The position combines biofermentation, process design, and product innovation, working across RD&A, manufacturing, and commercial teams to deliver scalable, customer-focused solutions from concept through commercialization.

Requirements

Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD in Chemical Engineering, Bioprocess Engineering, Food Science, Microbiology, or a related field
Experience in fermentation or biofermentation processes, preferably in food, biotech, or ingredient manufacturing
Strong knowledge of process design, scale-up, and industrial manufacturing systems
Hands-on experience with multi-unit operations (e.g., fermentation, drying, separation, thermal processing)
Proven ability to design experiments, analyze data, and solve complex technical problems
Experience leading cross-functional projects and delivering results in a fast-paced environment

Nice To Haves

Experience in food preservation systems (e.g., antimicrobials, clean-label solutions, shelf-life extension)
Strong background in microbiology and food safety concepts
Experience with commercialization and technology transfer processes
Familiarity with cGMP, food safety, and regulatory environments
Experience working in customer-facing or application-driven roles

Responsibilities

Lead the design and development of new preservation and freshness systems, applying scientific and experimental design techniques.
Generate innovative concepts through ideation, brainstorming, and technical exploration.
Develop differentiated, cost-effective solutions based on in-market benchmarking and customer needs.
Optimize existing formulations to improve performance, stability, and efficiency.
Lead cross-functional projects supporting internal and external customer requests, from concept to commercialization.
Develop and execute project plans and experimental designs (DOE).
Utilize Kerry systems and tools to drive project progress and documentation.
Analyze results and provide data-driven recommendations and insights.
Design and optimize bioprocesses and manufacturing systems, including: Fermentation / biofermentation, Spray drying, Centrifugation, Homogenization, Filtration and evaporation, Pasteurization and sterilization.
Troubleshoot process challenges and drive continuous improvement initiatives.
Integrate upstream and downstream processes to ensure efficient, scalable manufacturing.
Lead development of technology transfer documentation and scale-up strategies.
Support pilot and commercial trials, ensuring successful transition to manufacturing.
Collaborate closely with production site teams to execute trials and deliverables.
Ensure solutions are robust, scalable, and aligned with operational capabilities.