Dairy R&D Director & Principal Scientist

Agropur Cooperative; Eden Prairie (MN); On-site; USD 153,700 - 192,100; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health benefits

Retirement plan 401(k)

Paid time off

Paid holidays and floating holidays

Parental leave

Advancement opportunities

Job summary

Agropur Cooperative in Eden Prairie, MN, seeks a Director of Research & Development (Principal Scientist) to lead the dairy science agenda, drive innovation, and align technical ambitions with business goals.

You will build partnerships with universities and industry, oversee tech scouting, guide investments, and support commercialization while mentoring teams and influencing senior leaders.

Qualifications

• Advanced degree in Dairy or Food Science or related discipline.
• 15+ years in dairy R&D, innovation, product development, or scientific leadership.
• Proven track record leading innovation programs and translating science into business value.
• Experience in regulated food industries; US/Canada market experience preferred.

Responsibilities

• Lead R&D strategy and innovation initiatives for dairy products.
• Oversee technology scouting and partnerships with academia and industry.
• Govern R&D investments and support commercialization efforts.

Skills

Dairy science expertise

Product development

Research leadership

Academic collaboration

Regulatory knowledge

Excellent communication

Strategic thinking

Cross-functional leadership

Education

M.S./Ph.D. in Dairy/Food Science

Job description

Agropur Cooperative in Eden Prairie, MN, seeks a Director of Research & Development (Principal Scientist) to lead the dairy science agenda, drive innovation, and align technical ambitions with business goals.

You will build partnerships with universities and industry, oversee tech scouting, guide investments, and support commercialization while mentoring teams and influencing senior leaders.