R&D Technologist

Smithfield Foods•Lincoln, NE

3d•Hybrid

About The Position

Smithfield is seeking an R&D Technologist to lead impactful research projects focused on optimizing costs through advanced formulation and processing efficiencies. This role will drive the creation of new prototypes for product development, ensuring advancements in quality and performance. The Technologist will also identify and approve potential ingredient and manufacturing suppliers, collaborating with cross-functional teams to enhance production capabilities and shape the future of product development.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree from an accredited four-year college or university in Food Science or related field and 2+ years of relevant plant manufacturing experience in the meat processing industry, or equivalent combination of education and experience, required.
Strong scientific knowledge of meat, non-meat ingredients and their functionality.
Able to work with pilot plant equipment with minimum supervision.
Proficient in on-line work systems and product development software tools.
Continuously improves and updates food/meat science and product development skills and understands all aspects of current plant process systems.
Ability to multi-task; strong interpersonal, communication, organizational and time management skills.
Ability to work well with others in fast paced, dynamic environment.
Ability to be respectful, approachable and team oriented while building strong working relationships and a positive work environment.

Nice To Haves

Master’s Degree

Responsibilities

Develop new products and line extensions, transforming concepts from bench-top development to full commercialization.
Run production tests at manufacturing plants to refine formulations and enhance product quality.
Utilize an online formulation database to create or adjust product formulations for optimal performance.
Conduct pilot plant tests to develop product prototypes, carefully documenting findings and organizing product reviews for thorough evaluation.
Provide both verbal and written updates on project progress to keep stakeholders informed and ensure successful development.
Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including Business, Marketing, Sales, Manufacturing, Finance, Engineering, Quality, and Process Control, to drive successful product development.
Support R&D team members by assisting in the creation of product prototypes as needed.
Maintain accurate project files, formulations, specifications, and product data to ensure consistency and precision in development.
Continuously enhance product development skills through training and hands-on experience, ensuring compliance with USDA/FDA regulations and industry standards.

Benefits

Robust, flexible and affordable benefit plans and programs
Medical plans with out-of-pocket costs, on average, 20 percent less than plans offered by other employers
Be Well programs offer tools and resources to enhance quality of life
Support for elective surgeries, weight loss, mental health, cancer, kidney disease, diabetes, smoking cessation, asthma, maternity management
Comprehensive training and professional development programs
LinkedIn Learning access for on-demand courses, professional certificates, and skill-based training
Tuition assistance covering English language learning, high school completion, and degree programs through partnership with Guild
Leadership development initiatives
Smithfield Scholarship Program for employees’ children
Relocation Package Available