Sr Scientist, R&D - Product Development (Meat)

Full-time - Mid Level

Glenview, IL

About the position

The Sr. Scientist, Meat Technology role in the Meals & Kits Technical Platform focuses on supporting the Lunchables Category. This position involves leading and driving technical projects aimed at achieving business initiatives related to growth, productivity, ESG, and brand maintenance. The ideal candidate will have a strong track record in executing and commercializing complex projects with minimal guidance, demonstrating effective collaboration and innovative problem-solving skills in a dynamic environment.

Responsibilities

• Manage multiple assignments/research projects concurrently and prioritize various business initiatives.
• Lead the commercialization process as the technical/R&D lead, troubleshooting challenges as they arise.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to drive execution across multiple projects.
• Communicate updates to cross-functional teams, identifying hurdles and proposing solutions.
• Translate research findings into meaningful business objectives.
• Champion an innovation approach and influence cross-functional partners.
• Mentor, coach, and collaborate with colleagues within and outside the immediate team.
• Develop relationships and coordinate commercialization activities across internal and external manufacturing facilities.
• Lead and complete product testing, qualification, and commercialization in laboratory and production environments.
• Assist in scoping and facilitating business opportunities.

Requirements

• Bachelor's Degree in Food Science, Meat Science, Chemistry, or Chemical Engineering (Master's is a plus).
• 4+ years of product development and commercialization experience within a CPG or equivalent.
• Project management experience and technical expertise in food science/processing.
• Excellent communication, influencing, project management, and problem-solving skills.
• Highly motivated with the ability to multi-task on complex projects.
• Willingness to learn new product categories and processing areas.
• Demonstrated ability to influence and manage multiple projects concurrently, prioritizing effectively.
• Self-motivated problem solver with a drive to deliver objectives in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong experience in commercialization and understanding of ingredient interactions/functionality.

Nice-to-haves

• Experience in the meat industry or related fields.
• Familiarity with sustainability practices in food production.

Benefits

• Diversity and inclusion initiatives
• Professional development opportunities
• Flexible work environment
• Health and wellness programs