Food Scientist — Innovation, NPD & Process Excellence

Roskam Baking Company, LLC; Grand Rapids (MI); On-site; USD 65,000 - 95,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical benefits

Dental benefits

Vision benefits

Tuition reimbursement

Life insurance

Disability insurance

401(k) plan with company match

Job summary

Roskam Foods, a leading contract manufacturer headquartered in Grand Rapids, MI, seeks an innovative scientist to drive new product development and process optimization across multiple facilities. You will lead bench-top development, pilot trials, and production support while ensuring GMP/SQF/HACCP compliance.

The role requires strong problem-solving, analytical abilities, and cross-functional collaboration. Travel as needed and participation in market trend activities are expected.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or higher in Food Science, Chemistry, Biology, or related field.
• Experience in food manufacturing is preferred.
• Experience in a laboratory setting with good laboratory practices.
• Creative problem-solving and an innovation mindset.
• Strong analytical, organizational, and multi-tasking abilities with cross-functional collaboration.
• Proactive, enthusiastic, and detail-oriented contributor.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office; Genesis R&D software knowledge preferred.
• Willingness to travel as needed.

Responsibilities

• Develop project plans and lead cross-departmental teams to ensure successful project execution.
• Conduct bench-top development to meet consumer and customer objectives.
• Lead formulation and process optimization projects.
• Translate concepts into products feasible for manufacturing.
• Apply GMP/SQF/HACCP knowledge to ensure safe production.
• Identify, evaluate, and approve new ingredients and suppliers.
• Conduct pilot plant and production line trials to validate formulations.
• Provide support during production start-ups for smooth transitions.
• Create and manage specifications and process parameters in electronic systems.
• Conduct shelf-life evaluations and sensory testing.
• Lead productivity improvements and waste-reduction initiatives.
• Coordinate pricing requests for new product developments and formula revisions.
• Collaborate with sales, marketing, and customers on new product ideas.
• Participate in internal/external customer meetings and product presentations.
• Evaluate competitive products to inform development strategies.
• Stay updated on FDA regulations related to food processing.
• Report project status and plan next steps.
• Engage in market trend activities such as shows and supplier partnerships.

Skills

Analytical skills

Communication skills

Problem solving

Organization

Multi-tasking

Collaboration

Detail-oriented

Proactive

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Food Science/related

Lab experience with GLP/GMP

Tools

Microsoft Office

Genesis R&D

Job description

Roskam Foods, a leading contract manufacturer headquartered in Grand Rapids, MI, seeks an innovative scientist to drive new product development and process optimization across multiple facilities. You will lead bench-top development, pilot trials, and production support while ensuring GMP/SQF/HACCP compliance.

The role requires strong problem-solving, analytical abilities, and cross-functional collaboration. Travel as needed and participation in market trend activities are expected.