Food Scientist

Are you ready to join a FIVE-TIME US Best Managed Company? KENT WORLDWIDE™, a family of companies committed to excellence and innovation, is hiring a Food Scientist in Bolingbrook, IL. The Food Scientist supports Research & Development across all production facilities, with a primary focus on product development driven by internal teams and external stakeholders, including sales and marketing. Responsibilities span from concept development through regulatory and quality processes to full-scale production and shipment.

• This is a salaried position with a complete benefit package reporting to the R & D Supervisor.
• The compensation range for this role is $75,000 to $90,000, in addition to KENT standard benefits (health, dental, vision, 401k). Final compensation is subject to variation based on the candidate's skills, job responsibilities, location and other pertinent factors.

PRIMARY DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Develop products aligned with company initiatives from concept through manufacturing.
• Manage technical projects, ensuring compliance with cost, nutrition, packaging, shelf-life, sensory, and regulatory requirements.
• Prepare and send accurate customer samples with required documentation.
• Maintain and update all project-related data and systems.
• Audit initial production batches for formula and quality accuracy.
• Collaborate frequently with QC, QA, Regulatory, and Operations teams.
• Research new ingredients and liaise with suppliers.
• Travel for customer visits, trade shows, and company events as needed.
• Lead project design, problem-solving, and provide technical support to internal and external stakeholders.
• Support team learning and knowledge sharing; engage in innovation processes.
• Record and analyze experimental data; prepare reports.
• Stay current on technologies, trends, and regulations; integrate advancements into processes.
• Follow GMP standards and ensure food safety in manufacturing.
• Build strong relationships with customers and demonstrate innovation in product development.
• Identify root causes of issues and implement corrective actions.

EXPERIENCE AND QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Food Science, Biology, Chemistry, or related field
• Minimum 5 years of experience developing food products
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, presentation skills
• Excellent computer and math skills
• Ability to work in team environment and independently in a flexible work environment with frequently changing priorities
• Excellent organizational and project management skills
• Experience with Product Vision system is a plus

TRAVEL:

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