Senior Scientist, Research & Development (Meat)

Kinder's•Walnut Creek, CA

5d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Sr. Scientist, Research & Development (Meat) will report to the Vice President of Research & Development and will be a key technical leader within the organization. This individual will be instrumental in driving key long-term R&D projects while also supporting our mission to deliver best-in-class speed to market and quality of new innovations. In this role, you will work on complex technical challenges, collaborate with internal and external partners, and apply your deep knowledge of meat products, processing, and safety to guide research & development and to create best-in-class products that delight our consumers and set new standards of what is possible in the categories that we choose to enter.

Requirements

8-10 years of hands-on R&D and / or product development experience in the CPG food and / or ingredients industry.
Deep knowledge of meat microbiology, animal physiology, and meat processing.
Strong knowledge of USDA/FSIS, HACCP, and other food safety systems.
Proven experience managing complex technical projects using a robust project / product lifecycle process.
Demonstrated experience in working across the product development lifecycle, from benchtop formulation to full-scale commercialization.
Proven ability to lead complex technical projects and work effectively with cross-functional teams.
Master’s Degree in Meat Science, Animal Science, or Food Science

Nice To Haves

Growth mindset with an excitement to learn (and teach).
Passionate people-lover excited by the opportunity to build strong relationships with teammates and consumers.
Low ego with a strong sense of humility.
Thrive in a dynamic, lean, and agile environment.
Collaborative mindset with an ability to find creative solutions.
Self-starter who takes initiative and is willing to speak their mind.
Excited to be part of a fast-moving team with the ability to be a leader and a follower where required.
Enjoy making decisions and finding ways to say ‘yes’ as often as possible to impactful and important priorities.

Responsibilities

Lead the evaluation and qualification of new ingredients, including novel and functional ingredients, to focus on driving clean-label standards for value-added meat products without compromising performance.
Identify and translate emerging meat science and technology trends into actionable, long-term innovation platforms.
Establish / manage strategic development meat projects with third-party research partners, including ingredient suppliers, independent R&D organizations, and academic institutions, to accelerate innovation.
Be a subject matter meat science expert, providing insights / guidance to cross-functional teams on formulation, processing, and ingredient functionality.
Advise on complex new product development projects from concept through commercialization, demonstrating a comprehensive understanding of meat science, formulation, and manufacturing processes and ensuring products meet quality, sensory, and shelf-life standards.
Collaborate closely with Commercialization, Innovation, Operations, and Quality teams to ensure the seamless launch of new products.
Support long-term product optimization projects focused on enhancing quality, scalability, clean-label standards, and flavor.
Lead technical initiatives to improve product performance, including shelf-stability and freshness, across our diverse portfolio.
Apply scientific principles to troubleshoot and resolve complex product, sourcing, or production challenges.
Partner with the Sourcing and Operations teams to identify and approve alternative ingredients and process improvements that enhance efficiency without compromising quality.
Partner closely with cross-functional leaders (e.g., Innovation, Commercialization, Operations, and Quality) to drive project alignment.
Provide clear communication on risks / opportunities to senior leadership.
Act as a champion for the R&D process, fostering a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement.