R&D Food Scientist

Job DetailsLevel: ExperiencedJob Location: Gridley, IL - Gridley, IL 61744Position Type: Full TimeSalary Range: $90,000.00 - $110,000.00 SalaryJob Summary:  Develop, formulate, and prepare product and process development initiatives and support ongoing continuous improvement projects. Support Research & Development department to ensure compliance with all regulatory and internal requirements. Support QA function in the production of safe, quality food products. Key Responsibilities:  Independently formulate & prepare samples for internal or external review.  Request ingredient samples and associated documentation and conduct technical and regulatory feasibility assessments.  Acquire a thorough operational knowledge of laboratory processing equipment, including, but not limited to, the laboratory freeze dryer.   Possess a thorough operational knowledge of laboratory analytical equipment, including, but not limited to, pH meter, moisture analyzer, and refractometer.  Design experiments and oversee production scale-up activities, including plant trials, to ensure successful transition from lab to full-scale manufacturing.  Establish and maintain prototype and initial commercial product specifications.  Assist in maintaining all R&D project documentation; Kosher, MSDS, QAI, Raw Material Specifications, Allergen Statements, etc., to ensure compliance with internal and external requirements.  Assist in reviewing all label information for new products and suggest corrections & revisions where needed.  Maintain Genesis R&D database and run nutritional analyses on product formulations.  Design and manage shelf life studies.  Manage communication with customers to provide technical support.  Assist in maintaining R&D laboratory organization and cleanliness.  Adhere to Watershed Foods' sanitation, GMPs, HACCP policies, Food Safety policies, and Occupational Safety Policies and communicate any observed Food Safety or Food Quality issues. Assist other team members and perform other duties as needed.   Skills & Qualifications:  0-2 years of work experience in mid-entry level + BS/BA in Food Science, Chemical/Food Engineering, Biochemistry, or related field (Chemistry, Biology, Biotechnology, Physics) + Master's Degree in related science.   *Culinary experience is a plus   OR 3-5 years of work experience in mid-entry level + BS/BA in Food Science, Chemical/Food Engineering, Biochemistry, or related field (Chemistry, Biology, Biotechnology, Physics) No Master's Degree   *Culinary experience is a plus   Benefits:  PPO or HSA medical benefits with Employer Contributions. Dental, Vision, Life, AD&D, Disability insurance. 401K with a competitive company match. 8 Holidays, Vacation accrual, PTO program, Parental Leave. Attendance, Safety, Service Awards. Tuition Reimbursement Program. Uniform and Boots provision. Employee Assistance Program. Chaplain Program. Smart Dollar. Company Events and Luncheons. Paid Volunteer Days. Referral bonuses.