Quality Systems Specialist

Bimbo Bakeries USA; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 65,000 - 95,000; Full time

Job summary

Bimbo Bakeries USA in Chicago is seeking a Food Science/QA professional to conduct testing on finished products and ingredients (pH, water activity, texture, shelf life) and perform microbiological analysis (yeast and mold).

You will evaluate reformulation impacts, apply ingredient-functionality knowledge, support troubleshooting and improvement initiatives, and participate in bench-top and plant trials while collaborating with QFS, Operations, and R&D to ensure product quality and process

Qualifications

• Degree in Food Science, Microbiology, Chemistry, or related field.
• Experience with analytical testing and food microbiology (yeast & mold).
• Knowledge of bakery systems, shelf-life control, and ingredient functionality.
• Experience with data analysis tools (Excel, Minitab) and DOE (preferred).
• Strong problem-solving, communication, and technical writing skills.

Responsibilities

• Conduct testing on finished products and ingredients (pH, water activity, texture, shelf life).
• Perform microbiological analysis (yeast & mold detection, trending).
• Evaluate impact of reformulation on shelf life and mold control.
• Apply knowledge of ingredient functionality (enzymes, preservatives, fermentation systems).
• Support troubleshooting and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Support formulation development, optimization, and scale-up.
• Participate in bench-top and plant trials.
• Ensure alignment with reformulation requirements and claims.
• Analyze product and process data to identify trends and opportunities.
• Support process control updates and analytical method alignment.
• Partner with QFS, Operations, R&D, and other teams to resolve product issues.
• Support reformulation initiatives and testing methodologies.
• Contribute to technical problem-solving and project alignment.

Skills

Strong problem-solving

Communication

Technical writing

Education

Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Microbiology, Chemistry, or related field

Tools

Excel

Minitab

DOE

Job description

Responsibilities

Conduct testing on finished products and ingredients (pH, water activity, texture, shelf life). Perform microbiological analysis (yeast & mold detection, trending). Evaluate impact of reformulation on shelf life and mold control. Apply knowledge of ingredient functionality (enzymes, preservatives, fermentation systems). Support troubleshooting and continuous improvement initiatives. Support formulation development, optimization, and scale-up. Participate in bench-top and plant trials. Ensure alignment with reformulation requirements and claims. Analyze product and process data to identify trends and opportunities. Support process control updates and analytical method alignment. Partner with QFS, Operations, R&D, and other teams to resolve product issues. Support reformulation initiatives and testing methodologies. Contribute to technical problem-solving and project alignment.

Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Microbiology, Chemistry, or related field. Experience with analytical testing and food microbiology (yeast & mold). Knowledge of bakery systems, shelf-life control, and ingredient functionality. Experience with data analysis tools (Excel, Minitab) and DOE (preferred). Strong problem-solving, communication, and technical writing skills.