Research and Development Research Specialist - Willmar, MN

R&D RESEARCH SPECIALIST - WILLMAR CORPORATE OFFICE (WILLMAR, MN)

To save time applying, Hormel Foods does not offer sponsorship of job applicants for employment-based visas for this position at this time.

Relocation is not eligible for this role.

ABOUT HORMEL FOODS — 

Hormel Foods Corporation, based in Austin, Minnesota, is a global branded food company with approximately $12 billion in annual revenue. Its brands include PLANTERS®, SKIPPY®, SPAM®, HORMEL® NATURAL CHOICE®, APPLEGATE®, WHOLLY®, HORMEL® BLACK LABEL®, COLUMBUS®, JENNIE-O® and more than 30 other beloved brands. The company is a member of the S&P 500 Index and the S&P 500 Dividend Aristocrats, was named one of the best companies to work for by U.S. News & World Report, one of America’s most responsible companies by Newsweek, recognized by TIME magazine as one of the World’s Best Companies and has received numerous other awards and accolades for its corporate responsibility and community service efforts.  For more information, visit hormelfoods.com. hormelfoods.com.

This role is primarily office-based and focuses on data management, reporting, and administrative coordination in support of research and development activities. The ideal candidate will enjoy working with data, spreadsheets, and cross-functional teams to positively impact company objectives.

Key Responsibilities

•   Manage and maintain data using advanced Excel skills to support company research and reporting needs

•   Analyze data and generate reports to support regulatory compliance and business decision-making

•   Organize, update, and maintain multiple databases to ensure data accuracy and accessibility across departments

•   Support system updates and user needs within internal data management systems (e.g., LIMS)

•   Support documentation management, including formatting, archiving, and ensuring consistency and accuracy of research reports.

•   Coordinate preventative maintenance schedules and documentation for research equipment

•   May assist with organizing product evaluations, data collection, and research activities

(Note: Limited involvement in lab or production environments may be occasionally required.)

Qualifications

Required

•             Associate degree or equivalent experience (bachelor’s preferred)

•             1–5 years of experience in data management or administrative support

•             Strong proficiency in Microsoft Office, especially Excel (data analysis, spreadsheets, reporting)

•             Excellent organizational, multitasking, and prioritization skills

•             Ability to work both independently and collaboratively across teams

•             Strong written and verbal communication skills

•             High attention to detail and accuracy

Preferred

•             Advanced Excel skills (e.g., Pivot Tables, data analysis tools)

•             Experience with data systems or databases (e.g., LIMS or similar platforms)

•             Background in administrative support within technical, manufacturing, or research environments

•             Understanding of poultry, animal, or food production systems

Work Environment

•             Primarily office-based, desk-oriented role within a corporate setting

•             Occasional time spent in cooler or production areas may be required

•             Minimal physical demands compared to traditional lab or production roles

At Hormel Foods, base pay is one part of our total compensation package and is determined within a range.  The base hiring pay range for this role is between $21.00-$29.25 per hour, and your actual base pay within that range will depend upon a variety of factors including, but not limited to, job-related knowledge, skill set, level of experience, and geographic market location.

Other components of Hormel Foods’ total compensation package includes comprehensive medical, dental and vision coverage, discretionary annual merit increases, profit sharing, 401(k) with employer match, stock purchase plan, paid vacation, FREE two-year community/technical college tuition for children of employees, and more.

At Hormel we invite difference and diversity in all aspects.  We offer a space of support, understanding, and community.  We are committed to the journey!  Learn more about our progress here: https://www.hormelfoods.com/about/diversity-and-inclusion/

Hormel Foods provides equal employment opportunities to applicants and employees without regard to race; color; sex; gender identity; sexual orientation; religious practices and observances; national origin; pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions; status as a protected veteran or spouse/family member of a protected veteran; or disability.