Food Scientist

Job Description:

JOB PURPOSE:

Alphia, one of the nation’s leading custom pet food manufacturing companies, is looking for a skilled Food Scientist. The Food Scientist is responsible for managing research and development projects involving new product and process development, production trials, least-cost formulation, product/process improvement, technical sales support, etc. Product area responsibilities will include dry extruded and baked pet foods and  snacks/treats.

DESCRIPTION OF ESSENTIAL DUTIES:

• Demonstrate strong project management skills on research and development projects as assigned.
• Actively participate as a key contributor to new products development.
• Formulate dry extruded and baked pet foods and snacks/treats according to defined parameters.
• Oversee/conduct plant trials on assigned projects at various production facilities.
• Troubleshoot and resolve production and product quality issues experienced at the plant level.
• Work effectively on multidisciplinary teams within the company and with external customers and suppliers to accomplish project objectives.
• Provide technical sales support.
• Comprehend and apply food science and pet nutrition principles effectively in project work.
• Prepare and issue specifications for new ingredients and finished products.

QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS:  (To perform this job successfully, and individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily.  The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required).

• Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Animal Science, Nutrition, or equivalent, required.
• 5 years of experience in pet food, food science, or related field.
• Demonstrated knowledge of ingredient functionality and food manufacturing processes.
• Strong communication and project management skills.
• Creativity and problem solving ability.
• Collect and interpret data and make recommendations.
• Experience working effectively in a plan environment, preferred.
• Knowledge of Good Manufacturing Principles, Microsoft Office, Microsoft Excel.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:  (The physical demands described here are representatives of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.  Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential function.  The phrases “occasionally,” “regularly,” and “frequently” correspond to the following definitions: “occasionally” means up to 25% of working time, “regularly” means between 26 and 75% of working time, and “frequently” means 76% and more of working time.)

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk or hear, walk, and move from place to place.  The employee is frequently required to stand and use hands to finger, handle or touch.

Alphia is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.