Research & Development Scientist II

Chobani•Allentown, PA

About The Position

The Research & Development Scientist II supports all R&D product platforms. The role supports equipment operation, ingredient and supply ordering and handling, preparation of materials for internal and customer testing, experiments, routine testing, laboratory records, formulation work, and analysis and reporting of results. It also helps ensure the food safety and quality of products and supports shipping and receiving finished goods for tasting and shelf-life testing. The position works with scientists and team members on experiment planning and execution, pilot laboratory and plant equipment, food ingredient and finished-product evaluations, inventory, and coordination with internal departments and vendors. It follows company safety procedures, standard operating procedures, and Good Manufacturing Practices.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in food or dairy science, chemistry, biology, or a related life science field.
Two to five years of experience in food or dairy manufacturing or laboratory science; the posting also mentions a degree in a life science field as an alternative.
Ability to operate pilot plant production equipment and laboratory testing equipment used in food and beverage manufacturing.
Ability to handle ambiguity and work in a fast-paced, entrepreneurial working culture.
Demonstrated ability to prioritize work and determine the sequencing and timing of jobs based on precedence and importance.
Ability to understand and follow standard operating procedures and instructions.
Ability to work with chemicals.
Basic computer skills, including working knowledge of Microsoft Word and Excel.
Good verbal and written communication skills, including the ability to clearly define ideas, problems, and solutions.
Self-motivation and self-direction, with the ability to work independently and in group settings.
Basic math and problem-solving skills.
Working knowledge of personal protective equipment, Good Laboratory Practices (GLP), and current Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMP).

Nice To Haves

Dairy beverage or application experience is preferred.
Knowledge of sanitation, CIP, and COP procedures is preferred.
PowerPoint skills are a plus.

Responsibilities

Support operation of laboratory equipment and participate in sales and shipment projects, shelf-life studies, special projects, industrial trials, and Elevated Quality Management.
Record observations, collect and prepare data for analysis, and prepare basic laboratory reports under the guidance of the R&D Manager.
Attend scheduled planning and participate in design-of-experiment execution under the direction of scientists and team members.
Support preventative maintenance, calibration, preparation, operation, and CIP procedures for current pilot laboratories and pilot plant processing and testing equipment.
Follow plant procedures for required maintenance on pilot processing equipment and machinery in relation to safety, quality, or environmental concerns.
Participate in physical, chemical, and sensory evaluations of food ingredients and finished products for Safe Quality Food.
Complete procedures to create, maintain, and provide accurate records.
Procure ingredients and supplies internally and through external vendors, by project or as directed by a lead Scientist, and maintain proper storage areas.
Cycle-count items, maintain accurate minimum and maximum counts, and manage ongoing inventory through the end of a project.
Coordinate with internal departments on shipments of ingredients to vendors in the United States and overseas.
Coordinate dispatch of finished-goods sales samples with the regional sales manager.
Participate in discussions, workshops, and informational meetings with internal supporting departments.
Attend and participate in required annual Allergen, HACCP, GMP, and Safety trainings and other required meetings or training.
Complete additional assigned work, including special projects.
Follow Chobani safety procedures, standard operating procedures, and Good Manufacturing Practices.

Benefits

Medical, dental, and vision coverage
Disability insurance
Health savings account
Flexible spending accounts
Tuition reimbursement
401(k) match of 100% on up to 5% of eligible pay
Fertility assistance
Childcare assistance
12 weeks of parental leave at full pay after six months of continuous employment
Employee assistance program
Fitness discounts
Wellness reimbursement
On-site gym access at certain locations
120 hours of paid time off
11 paid holidays
Paid volunteer time off
Bonus
Equity