R&D Engineer (Protein Processing Technology)

Description

Do you want to design machinery that shapes the future of global food production? Are you looking for a role where you can jump from 3D CAD modeling to building and testing a physical prototype on the shop floor in the same week?

Cozzini, LLC is looking for an R&D Engineer to join our innovation engine. We don't just build machines; we engineer advanced capital equipment solutions that help the protein industry run faster, cleaner, and more sustainably. If you have a passion for complex machine design, automation, and hands-on problem-solving, this is your sandbox.

What You'll Do:

• Invent and Improve: Conduct research into emerging industry trends to design and develop cutting-edge machinery for food processing applications.
• Build and Break Prototypes: Move designs out of the computer and into reality. You will build, test, and validate prototypes, push them to their limits, analyze performance data, and refine them for market launch.
• Master a Diverse Technical Landscape: Work across an exciting mix of mechanical systems (grinding, mixing, vacuum, and pumping), electrical/automation systems (servo motion, low-voltage AC, control panels), and sanitary stainless steel fabrication.
• Ensure Global Compliance: Embed safety and reliability into every design, keeping up with OSHA compliance, CE certifications, and strict sanitary standards.
• Collaborate Across the Business: Partner closely with Sales to understand customer needs, and work hand-in-hand with Manufacturing and Quality to make sure your designs can be built flawlessly.

What We’re Looking For:

• A solid engineering foundation with proven experience in a manufacturing, automation, or food processing environment.
• Deep curiosity and technical breadth—comfortable talking about both stainless steel weldments and servo motor motion profiles.
• A hands-on troubleshooting mindset that thrives on finding the root cause of mechanical or electrical challenges.

Benefits:

• Health insurance
• Health Savings Account w/ ER contribution
• Flexible Spending Account w/ ER contribution
• Dental Insurance
• Company Paid Disability Insurance
• Employee Assistance Program
• Company Paid Life insurance
• Paid holidays
• Paid time off
• 401k
• Vision insurance

Cozzini, LLC is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EOE/M/F/Vets/Disabled) employer and welcomes all qualified applicants.
Principals only, please no third parties.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering
• Minimum of 3 years of experience in R&D engineering, preferably within food processing or capital equipment manufacturing environments
• Working knowledge of multiple engineering disciplines and technologies outlined within the position overview
• Proficiency with CAD software such as SolidWorks and AutoCAD for equipment design and modeling
• Familiarity with USDA, FDA, and other applicable food safety regulations and standards
• Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and problem-solving skills
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills with the ability to work effectively across cross-functional teams
• Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities in a fast-paced environment
• Willingness to travel as needed to support equipment installations and customer-related activities

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience working with food processing systems, particularly within the protein processing industry
• Previous experience developing, supporting, or contributing to patent-related projects or innovations
• Experience within capital equipment manufacturing environments