Research & Development Project Leader / Food Scientist

Saige Partners•Iowa City, IA

27d

About The Position

Our Client is seeking to add a NEW Research & Development Project Leader / Food Scientist to their team. This is a Direct Hire role. What you will be doing… Focus on development of meat formulations focusing on deli meat applications. Apply science and technology to meat research and development. Conduct and sensory studies internally and externally. Interpret data that is collected. Plan and design product processes working with operations and engineering teams. Collect and analyze data collected during development processes. Report plant trial findings, determine next steps and provide recommendations throughout the project timeline. Lead research in connection with new product development. Lead research in connection with process development and process improvement. Provide technical support and expertise in relation to new products and processes. Lead cost reduction initiatives as it relates to development of current and new products. Other duties as assigned.

Requirements

5-7 years of related research and development experience in the meat industry is preferred.
Bachelor’s Degree in Meat Science, related field or equivalent experience.
Knowledge of Genesis Programming.
Ability to travel for production facility needs and customer meetings.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Ability to lead a team of resourceful and skilled team members in project completion.
Must be a problem solver and critical thinker.
Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds.
Must be able to work in a fast paced environment.
Ability to adjust quickly to changing demands.
Advanced computer skills including Google Suite.
Must be able to work extended hours and weekends according to schedule.
Candidates must successfully pass a post-offer/pre-employment drug test and background screen.

Nice To Haves

Sandwich development experience would be a plus.
Seeking experience working with turkey in development stages.
Experience in a pilot plant setting is preferred.
HACCP and meat and nutritional labeling requirements is a plus.
Prior experience in a manufacturing environment is beneficial.

Responsibilities

Focus on development of meat formulations focusing on deli meat applications.
Apply science and technology to meat research and development.
Conduct and sensory studies internally and externally.
Interpret data that is collected.
Plan and design product processes working with operations and engineering teams.
Collect and analyze data collected during development processes.
Report plant trial findings, determine next steps and provide recommendations throughout the project timeline.
Lead research in connection with new product development.
Lead research in connection with process development and process improvement.
Provide technical support and expertise in relation to new products and processes.
Lead cost reduction initiatives as it relates to development of current and new products.
Other duties as assigned.