Food Scientist

Job Title: Food Scientist Job Description This role focuses on leading and executing seasoning qualification trials at commercial bakeries across the United States. You will ensure that new seasoning suppliers can match existing product sensory profiles and specifications, manage scale-up from lab to full manufacturing, and perform bench work and lab testing that closely mimic factory processes. As an independent R&D food scientist, you will own projects end-to-end, from technical validation through documentation and cross-functional communication, while supporting a major biscuit department initiative with the opportunity to expand into other product areas.

Responsibilities Lead and execute seasoning qualification trials at bakeries to validate new seasoning suppliers against existing product standards. Ensure new seasonings match the established sensory profile and technical specifications of current products. Manage the scale-up of new seasonings from laboratory development to full manufacturing processes. Conduct bench work and lab testing to accurately mimic the manufacturing process prior to factory trials.

Plan, lead, and document pre-trial and post-trial meetings, capturing key decisions, trial results, and follow-up actions. Travel to bakeries across the United States approximately twice per month to oversee and support factory trials. Work independently as an R&D food scientist, driving projects forward with minimal supervision. Manage ingredient specifications, including creation, review, and maintenance of technical documentation for new seasonings.

Collaborate with production and manufacturing teams during factory trials to ensure smooth execution and data collection. Support a year-long initiative for the biscuit department, contributing technical expertise to improve products and processes. Apply research and development methodologies to new product development and process optimization in food manufacturing. Communicate trial outcomes, risks, and recommendations clearly to cross-functional stakeholders.

Ensure that lab-scale results are translated effectively into pilot plant and full-scale manufacturing environments. Essential Skills Bachelor’s degree in Food Science, Chemistry, or a closely related field. Minimum of 3 years of experience in food manufacturing, including hands-on work in pilot plants and bakeries to test products. At least 3 years of experience in research and development (R&D) within the food industry.

Demonstrated experience running trials in a factory setting, including planning, execution, and evaluation. Strong bench work and laboratory testing experience, with the ability to design tests that mimic manufacturing processes. Proficiency in specification management for ingredients and finished products. Experience in food science with a focus on savory products; beverage manufacturing experience is acceptable when combined with strong manufacturing exposure.

Practical knowledge of new product development and production processes in food manufacturing. Ability to work independently and take ownership of R&D projects from concept through scale-up. Willingness and ability to travel to bakery locations approximately twice per month for trials. Additional Skills & Qualifications Experience in savory seasoning development or application within baked goods environments.

Experience in beverage manufacturing that includes factory trial experience and process scale-up. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills to troubleshoot manufacturing and formulation issues during trials. Effective communication skills for leading pre- and post-trial meetings and documenting outcomes. Adaptability to work across different product lines and departments as new assignments become available.

Interest in working with exciting and widely recognizable consumer brands. Motivation to perform at a high level to open opportunities for future assignments or permanent roles in other departments. Work Environment This role