Senior Food Scientist

Golding•St. Louis, MO

12h•Onsite

About The Position

The Senior Food Scientist serves as the resident expert in sauces, dips, and syrups, applying scientific principles to research, develop, and improve existing and new products. The role combines practical, technical, and analytical skills with product development experience in a laboratory located within a manufacturing facility. The position leads product development projects, collaborates with customers and cross-functional teams, supports Sales and manufacturing teams, and provides technical guidance to junior team members. It also acts as a backup to the Director of R&D as needed.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Food Science, Food Technology, Food Chemistry, or a related field.
At least 5 years of experience in consumer packaged goods product development.
Strong knowledge of food science principles and ingredient functionality.
Strong verbal and written communication skills, including the ability to translate technical information for diverse audiences.
Ability to influence cross-functional teams without direct authority.
Strong organizational and time-management skills, including the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
Ability to travel up to 10%, including by air and ground transportation.
Ability and willingness to taste and evaluate products containing common allergens, including nuts, soy, dairy, eggs, wheat, sesame, shellfish, and mustard.
Ability to occasionally lift up to 40 pounds.
Flexibility to work weekends, holidays, or varied shifts as business needs require.
Demonstrated curiosity, creativity, and commitment to continuous learning.
Adaptability and resilience in managing project challenges and shifting priorities.

Nice To Haves

Advanced degree in Food Science, Food Technology, Food Chemistry, or a related field.
Experience in sauces, dressings, or similar product categories.
Expertise in at least one food science discipline.

Responsibilities

Independently lead product development projects and deliver formulations that meet cost, quality, and customer expectations.
Apply scientific methodologies to evaluate the chemical, physical, and sensory characteristics of ingredients and finished products.
Collaborate with customers and cross-functional teams to co-develop product solutions.
Use internal resources, external consultants, and vendor partnerships to advance projects and meet timelines.
Support Sales as a technical representative in customer meetings and presentations.
Maintain accurate documentation, including formulas, test results, and development notes.
Collect, analyze, and interpret product development and stability-testing data, and provide actionable recommendations.
Mentor and provide technical guidance to junior team members.
Serve as an on-site technical resource for Production and Quality teams.
Act as a backup to the Director of R&D as needed.
Monitor industry trends, ingredients, and emerging technologies to identify product opportunities.