Food Scientist

Location: Glenview, ILWe are seeking an experienced R&D Product Development professional to support technical development projects focused on product innovation and renovation across North American foodservice/AFH product categories. This is a hands-on, research-based role requiring strong bench-top formulation and product development experience, technical problem-solving skills, and the ability to manage multiple projects independently.

Key Responsibilities: Conduct bench-top experiments, prototype development, and analytical measurements in a laboratory setting. Test new and improved products for flavor, texture, color, nutritional content, shelf life, and compliance with applicable government and industry standards. Support the development and commercialization of new and improved products. Review and evaluate ingredients and identify opportunities for product improvement and cost savings. Support feasibility assessments, prototype development, costing, and factory trials. Develop and maintain recipes, labels, factory documentation, and technical specifications. Support shelf-life assessments and technical approval processes. Provide technical support during initial factory production. Collaborate with Packaging, Quality, Operations, Project Management, Marketing, and Sales teams to execute projects and meet business objectives. Manage multiple assignments simultaneously while working with minimal guidance and seeking support when needed. Apply scientific principles and previous technical knowledge to new product development challenges.

Required Qualifications: Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Dairy Science, Meat Science, Chemical Engineering, or a related/equivalent field.3–4+ years of hands-on product development experience in the food or consumer products industry. Strong bench-top formulation experience. Hands-on experience with: Bench experiments Prototype development Laboratory techniques Analytical measurements Strong understanding of Design of Experiments (DOE).Strong communication, problem-solving, critical thinking, investigation, and attention-to-detail skills. Ability to manage multiple projects and assignments concurrently. Self-starter with the ability to work independently while receiving general direction and ongoing oversight. Willingness and ability to work onsite Monday–Friday. Ability to travel approximately 15% to factory locations. Travel expenses are reimbursed.

Preferred Qualifications: Internship, co-op, or full-time experience specifically in food product development. Experience with: Condiments and sauces Soups Mac & cheese Experience with foodservice / Away From Home (AFH) product categories. Experience working across different product types or R&D environments. Experience with sensory testing, shelf-life studies, analytical testing, or nutritional testing.

Ideal Candidate: The ideal candidate is a technically strong and hands-on R&D professional who enjoys formulation, experimentation, and product development and can collaborate effectively across multiple functions while managing several projects at once.

Location: Onsite

Schedule: Monday–Friday

Travel: Approximately 15%