Associate R&D Technologist

Your Opportunity

The Associate Research and Development Technologist will assist in supporting projects and documenting results as well as the research of programs to drive cost optimization through formulation and processing efficiencies, create new prototypes for product development initiatives, and identify/approve potential ingredient and manufacturing suppliers.

Core Responsibilities

Assists in the development of new products and line extensions from bench top to commercialization.

Helps R&D team in performing pilot plant tests to generate product prototypes, documents, organizes product reviews, and provides verbal and written communication on progress of projects.

Runs production tests at manufacturing plants developing commercially viable new products or reformulated products to improve quality.

Works with on-line formulation data base system creating or adjusting product formulations.

Maintains accurate project files, formulations, specifications and product/project data.

Works with cross functional teams (Marketing, Sales, Manufacturing, Finance, Engineering, Quality, Process Control etc.) on projects providing product development support.

Improves product development skills though appropriate training, understanding USDA/FDA regulations and hands-on working in projects.

Assists other R&D team members if required to generate product prototypes.

Qualifications

Bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited four-year college or university in Food Science or related field, or equivalent combination of education and experience, required.

Strong scientific knowledge of meat, non-meat ingredients and their functionality. Able to work with pilot plant equipment with minimum supervision.

Proficient in on-line work systems and product development software tools.

Continuously improves and updates food/meat science and product development skills and understands all aspects of current plant process systems.

Ability to multi-task; strong interpersonal, communication, organizational and time management skills.

May require travel up to 40% of the time.

Must have the ability to complete required applicable forms in English, which requires the ability to read and write in English.

Ability to work well with others in fast paced, dynamic environment.

Ability to be respectful, approachable and team oriented while building strong working relationships and a positive work environment.

Work Environment & Physical Demands

Office and plant setting. The plant environment will include wet or humid conditions (non-weather related), extreme cold and heat (non-weather related), working near moving mechanical parts, exposure to fumes or airborne particles, and chemicals.

Noise level in the work environment is usually moderate but can be loud when in the production area.

Occasionally lift and/or move up to 75 pounds.

Specific vision abilities include close vision, distance vision, and ability to adjust focus.

Frequently required to stand; sit; walk; use hands handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; stoop, kneel, crouch, and talk or hear.

Relocation Package Available No

EEO Information

Smithfield is an equal opportunity employer committed to workplace diversity. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, age, gender identity, protected veterans status, status as a disabled individual or any other protected group status or non-job characteristic as directed by law. If you are an individual with a disability and would like to request a reasonable accommodation for any part of the employment selection process, please call us at 757-357-1595.