Senior Food Scientist
tootsie rollChicago (IL)
About the role
The Senior Food Scientist will be the technical lead for new product innovation. This person will be responsible for working with brand manager and the plant on every stage of new product development from concept generation to commercialization. In addition, the candidate will aid the director of R&D with the execution of corporate R&D projects. This position will report to the Director of R&D.
New Product Development
Leads the development of projects from benchtop development through pilot plant scale up, factory scale-up, and commercialization.
Responsible for commercialization of new and reformulated products and successful transition from development to production
Designs and conduct lab tests, pilot plant and large-scale tests within manufacturing facilities to optimize formulation and/or process
Collaborates with Brand Manager and Senior Consumer Insights Analyst to develop robust innovation pipeline
Identifies and explores new and enabling technologies
Monitors domestic and global trends related to flavors and ingredients for candy/confections
Manages multiple projects at once with minimal supervisor guidance using clear communication, prioritization, and multitasking skills
Ensures all products meet Tootsie Roll Industries quality standards and shelf-life requirements.
Works closely with Process Engineers, Marketing, Quality, and Manufacturing in project execution and problem solving.
Corporate Projects
Is the R&D technical lead for continuous improvement/optimization projects for existing products
Manages development of R&D processes and ensures cross functional adherence
Qualifications:
Minimum of 8 years of Consumer Packaged Goods food technology experience
BS degree in Food Science, Food Engineering, Chemical Engineering or related field. MS degree preferred
3 – 5 years hands‑on experience in a confectionery product development and commercialization role is required.
Self‑motivated problem solver and the drive to deliver objectives in a complex environment
Excellent verbal and written communication
Ability to learn new products and processes quickly
Highly efficient at planning and staying on tight timelines and planning projects accordingly.
Before you apply
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