Food Scientist
About the OpportunityFood Scientist (Confectionery & Food Product Development) Onsite Role - Upper Midwest U.S. Production FacilityCompensationTotal Compensation Range: Approximately $60,000 - $105,000 annuallyBase Salary: Approximately $55,000 - $85,000Year 1 Guaranteed Bonus: $5,000 - $20,000Profit Sharing Eligibility: Available after one year of service, tied to company performance and profitabilityAbout the OrganizationThis opportunity is with a well-established, multi-generational, privately held food manufacturing company headquartered in the Midwestern United States. The organization produces a broad and growing portfolio of high-quality food products for both human and animal consumption.The company emphasizes a people-first culture built on trust, collaboration, and long-term relationships. Its values center on product excellence, innovation, and meaningful contributions to employees, customers, and the broader community. The organization maintains a reputation for authenticity, operational integrity, and steady growth within competitive food manufacturing markets.Role OverviewThe Food Scientist plays a vital role in product innovation, quality assurance, and continuous improvement initiatives within the organization. This position is responsible for developing and refining product formulations, particularly in confectionery applications, aligning them with consumer trends, regulatory requirements, and customer specifications.This role supports the full product lifecycle-from concept ideation and benchtop development through scale-up, plant trials, and commercialization. The Food Scientist collaborates cross-functionally with internal departments such as production, quality, procurement, and sales, while also interfacing externally with customers, suppliers, and industry organizations.Key ResponsibilitiesProduct Development & InnovationDevelop and optimize formulations for new and existing productsAlign product attributes with customer requirements, including flavor, texture, nutritional targets, and labeling claimsStay informed on emerging market trends, ingredient innovations, and regulatory updatesApply knowledge of ingredient functionality and interactions in multi-component systemsResearch & Development ExecutionConduct benchtop experiments and prototype developmentManage scaling processes from laboratory to commercial productionCoordinate and execute plant trials, including documentation and data collectionAnalyze results and implement adjustments for product consistency and performanceCross-Functional CollaborationWork closely with production teams to transfer formulations and ensure successful manufacturing executionPartner with procurement and suppliers to source ingredients and materialsCommunicate project timelines, updates, and results with internal stakeholders, including sales and leadership teamsQuality, Compliance & DocumentationSupport labeling development and ensure compliance with applicable regulationsMaintain accurate formulation records, reports, and technical documentationParticipate in troubleshooting product or process issues, identifying root causes and implementing solutionsMonitor product stability, shelf-life, and overall quality standardsSupplier & Industry EngagementBuild and maintain relationships with ingredient suppliers and technical partnersLeverage supplier insights for innovation and problem-solvingRepresent the organization at industry events, trade groups, and customer meetings as neededAdditional ContributionsAssist broader R&D team members on collaborative projectsMaintain laboratory equipment, tools, and materialsContinuously expand knowledge of ingredients, processing technologies, and industry advancementsSupport ongoing improvement initiatives across product linesQualificationsBachelor's degree or higher in Food Science or a related fieldMinimum of 2 years of practical experience in food product development, preferably in confectioneryStrong understanding of ingredient functionality and formulation scienceExperience with new product development processes and commercializationExcellent organizational, analytical, and communication skillsAbility to manage multiple projects and work effectively in team environmentsProficiency with standard computer tools and technical documentationBenefits SummaryComprehensive health, dental, and vision coverageWellness incentives tied to healthcare savingsPaid time off and recognized holidaysRetirement savings plan with employer matchingAccess to onsite or affiliated healthcare services and prescription programsFinancial planning resources and supportEducational assistance and relocation support where applicableAdditional incentive programs tied to individual and company performance