Sr. Food Scientist

Roskam Baking Company • Grand Rapids, MI

317d

About The Position

Founded in 1923 and headquartered in Grand Rapids, Michigan, Roskam Foods is a leading contract manufacturer that partners with world-renowned food brands, retailers, and food service providers to produce a myriad of frozen, refrigerated and shelf-stable products. We're a scaled, diversified operation with over 2 million square feet of manufacturing and 50 production lines across 8 facilities in the U.S. and Canada. We believe in the power of purpose-driven leadership to generate value for all. And we're on a mission to optimize the potential of our people and brands. We are passionate about multiplying possibilities for our employees and our partners. Under moderate supervision, the Senior Food Scientist provides technical expertise and innovative solutions throughout the product development process, from concept to commercialization. This role involves leading and collaborating with cross-functional teams to deliver timely, cost-effective innovations, product improvements, and cost savings, driving the company's growth.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree or higher in Food Science, Chemistry, Biology, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of experience and training that provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities.
• 5+ years of relevant food industry experience.
• Previous experience in food manufacturing is preferred.
• Experience in a laboratory setting demonstrating good laboratory practices.

Nice To Haves

• Proficient in Microsoft Office; knowledge of Genesis R D software preferred.
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds occasionally and work in cold, hot, and wet conditions.
• Willingness to travel as needed.

Responsibilities

• Develop project plans and lead cross-departmental teams to ensure successful project execution.
• Effectively manage customer accounts to meet their needs and objectives.
• Conduct bench-top development using scientific techniques to achieve consumer and customer goals.
• Initiate and lead projects focused on formulation and process enhancements.
• Demonstrate a proven ability to translate concepts into products that are friendly to manufacturing processes.
• Ensure safe, high-quality food production (GMPs, SQF, HACCP).
• Identify, evaluate, and obtain necessary approvals for new and alternative ingredients and suppliers.
• Conduct pilot plant and production line trials to validate product formulations.
• Provide support during production start-ups to ensure smooth transitions.
• Develop and manage specifications and process parameters using electronic systems and templates.
• Review labels to ensure accuracy of technical information.
• Conduct shelf-life testing and sensory evaluations to assess product quality.
• Initiate projects aimed at improving productivity and reducing waste.
• Coordinate pricing requests for new product developments and formula revisions, ensuring cost sheet accuracy.
• Support sales, marketing, and customers in generating new product ideas.
• Lead internal and external customer meetings and product presentations.
• Evaluate relevant competitive products to inform development strategies.
• Maintain awareness of current FDA regulations related to the food processing industry.
• Stay informed about current market trends through participation in food shows, sales meetings, technical presentations, and supplier partnerships; recommend new products or ingredients.
• Assess the impact of product and process challenges and identify solutions and opportunities for improvement or competitive advantage.
• Create ingredient statements and nutrition facts panels as needed.
• Work with operations and finance to establish standards, yields, and throughputs for products.
• Assist in training Research and Development personnel, acting as a mentor for less experienced team members.
• Lead team members in project tasks, ensuring collaboration and effective execution.
• Keep supervisors informed of project status and next steps.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision benefits.
• Life and disability insurance.
• 401K plan with company match.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Industry: Food Manufacturing
• Education Level: Bachelor's degree