R&D Scientist - Greek Yogurt

This position is responsible for leading R&D projects including developing product formulas, processing procedures and specifications for new Greek products, product and process improvements, and cost reductions in order to achieve business objectives.  The position also provides technical support to all Stonyfield departments as well as external vendors, co-packers and customers.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily.

• Lead the Technical Development Process for all assigned projects, from initial planning through commercialization
  • Ensure the objectives, scope and parameters of the project are clearly defined and communicated
  • Use scientific approach to plan experiments, analyze data, formulate and test hypotheses
  • Obtain and utilize deep technical understanding of all aspects of assigned projects
  • Facilitate project execution by working with Food Technologists and cross-functional teams
  • Communicate progress and provide recommendations
  • Anticipate challenges and elevate issues as needed
  • Collaborate with internal and external resources
  • Oversee production trials
• Serve as a technical resource for the company
  • Participate with continuous improvement efforts as required
  • Assist with trouble shooting on ingredients, finished products and processing issues
  • Provide additional technical support as requested
• Manage and optimize processes
  • Implement consistent systems, processes and procedures and ensure that they are followed at all times
  • Proactively and creatively drive efforts to enhance efficiency and processes throughout the department
• Facilitate Food Technologist performance and development
  • Ensure expectations are clearly understood
  • Identify performance and/or training gaps and collaboratively create plans for improvement
  • Support on-going technical and personal development
  • Provide regular and on-going constructive feedback and coaching
  • Hold Food Technologists accountable for meeting or exceeding defined expectations
• Professional Development
  • Create and follow-through on an annual individual development plan focused at improving performance in current role and developing for future opportunities
  • Continually expand and strengthen technical knowledge
• Other duties as assigned

ENVIRONMENTAL RESPONSIBILITIES

• Oversee the efficient implementation of quality standards, programs and processes to improve operational efficienciesreduce/eliminate production waste and spoilange.
• Support environmental programs established within the organization to include recycling of all office wastes in accordance with program guidelines, initiate power conservation techniques by turning off lights and computers when not in use
• Proactively look for ways to reduce negative impacts on the environment

SAFETY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Proactively work in a safe manner in the context of performing the functions of your position
• Oversee the implementation and adherence to Company safety practices and programs and hold staff accountable for leading safety in the workplace

QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelors or Masters of Science required
• Strong understanding of scientific methodology
• Solid technical knowledge of food science
• 5+ years applicable work experience, including experience working with Greek yogurt
• Product development experience required
• Familiarity with manufacturing environment preferred
• Supervisory exprience preferred
• Self-motivated with a high level of responsibility and professionalism
• Proven ability to successfully lead in a collaborative team environment
• Excellent time management and prioritization skills with a proven ability to handle multiple projects with conflicting deadlines
• Flexibility and ability to adapt to changing priorities
• Strong business acumen
• Demonstrated creativity
• Ability to follow direction and work independently
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Strong math, computer and logic skills
• Excellent organization skills
• Meticulous record keeping skills
• Ability to prioritize and meet deadlines within specified time constraints
• Ability to operate in a team environment
• Ability to adapt in a changing work environment

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Ability to safely lift 50 lbs.
• Ability to bend and reach files and cabinets where records are stored
• Office environment, repetitive motion through computer use required
• Manufacturing environment, operating in areas where high noise, machinery and chemicals are present

The above cited duties and responsibilities describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to the job.