Our client is a large, global FOOD manufacturer of many well-known and trusted branded products. Due to continued growth and expansion, they have an immediate need for an experienced SENIOR FOOD SCIENTIST to work with CEREAL and BAKERY Systems and Products. This position is based in the Kalamazoo, MI area and will aid in the development and rollout of new products, including concept design, lab samples and first production runs. The Senior Food Scientist will work on developing systems and items including; Cereals, Cereal Bars, Cookies, Crackers and other related items.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

·         Develop new products, including concept design, lab samples and first production runs

·         Applies sound scientific methods in all stages of development including planning and executing trials, analyzing data, and defining significant next steps.

·         Interact with R&D personnel, sales, operations, process development, commercialization and customers to successfully create bakery items and systems

·         Assisting in the process of development and commercialization of developed systems and to utilize company systems for application, development, organization and communication.

·         Focus on product development projects, coordinate development issues with other departments, refine current formulations, maintain formulation methods

·         Qualify primary and secondary ingredient vendors, perform product shelf life experiments and maintain the R&D lab and equipment.

·         Develop and/or review labels for nutritional value and ingredient deck accuracy. 

REQUIREMENTS:  

·         MUST have at least a BS in Food Science, Cereal Science or similar Science

·         MUST have at least 5 years of Cereal and Bakery R&D/Product Development experience.

·         MUST have a thorough knowledge of CEREAL and BAKERY SCIENCE - Proteins, Starches, Processing Aids, Direct expanded cereals, (screw configurations, die design, process conditions, nucleation, SME), batch process, gun puffing, sheeting, co-extrusion.

·         MUST have EXTRUSION experience

·         MUST have cereal manufacturing experience and be able to troubleshoot problems in plants

·         MUST have a high Mechanical Aptitude and be a Team Player.

·         MUST have above average Communication skills. Must be able to communicate well with R&D staff, production and management.  

·          MUST be self-motivated and self-directed, capable of taking ownership of projects.

·         MUST have strong business acumen and experience making sound commercial/business decisions.

·         MUST be able to work well in a fast paced environment and work well under pressure.

·         MUST be capable of supervising and directing others, build teams, motivate and empowers team members

·         MUST have a strong work ethic, leads by example, be detailed, organized and have a positive attitude. 

·         MUST have a solid professional demeanor and be able to give presentations to customers and management.

·         MUST have solid computer skills with MS Office