R&D Ana Tech Associate Scientist

PepsiCo; Valhalla (NY); On-site; USD 70,000 - 119,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company is seeking an R&D Associate Scientist to perform analytical testing and contribute to consumer health and safety. This role involves using advanced analytical techniques to resolve quality-related issues and working collaboratively across various functions. Candidates should have a chemistry background and experience in consumer goods.

Benefits

Paid time off including parental leave

Comprehensive benefits package

Qualifications

• 2-4 years' experience in the consumer goods industry.
• Hands-on experience with analytical instruments and data interpretation.
• Ability to design and execute small-scale research experiments.

Responsibilities

• Perform analytical testing and sensory evaluation on samples.
• Utilize advanced instrumentation for issue resolution.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams for problem solving.

Skills

Analytical testing

Problem-solving

Critical thinking

Communication

Education

B.S. or M.S. in Chemistry or related field

Tools

GCMS

LC

Job description

Overview

The R&D Associate Scientist will have unique opportunities to increase technical knowledge by using multiple analytical techniques and physical characterization tools to investigate quality-related issues. The team provides analytical solutions and insights to protect company brands and consumer health & safety. The cases resolved include out-of-compliance ingredients and products from the field, prototype samples from product development, and samples received through Consumer Relations. The knowledge generated will impact a diverse portfolio of beverage categories. Additional responsibilities include acting as the administrator for the Global Forensics LIMS database.

Responsibilities

1. Perform analytical testing and sensory evaluation on ingredients, semi-finished ingredients, prototype samples, and finished goods with out-of-compliance issues during development, manufacturing, or in the field.
2. Utilize scientific methods (chemistry, physical characterization) and advanced instrumentation (LC, GCMS) to develop knowledge for issue resolution as part of a cross-functional team.
3. Independently perform GC/MS volatile analysis and interpret data to assist root cause analysis of Forensics investigations.
4. Provide guidance to CR and SCQC representatives for sample retrieval and updates during issue resolution, collaborating with teams such as TBS or Consumer Relations.
5. Interact with Senior Scientists, communicate Forensics results, and assist Department Director (LG1) on key Forensics metrics as needed.
6. Contribute to designing and executing experiments, analyzing data (quantitative/qualitative), and interpreting results using statistical tools to evaluate product and process issues.
7. Participate actively in cross-functional issue resolution teams involving Quality, Product Development, Consumer Relations, Packaging, Engineering, and others.
8. Leverage internal experts and external laboratories for analytical testing in critical Forensics cases.
9. Maintain the Global Forensics LIMS system.

Compensation and Benefits

• Expected salary range: $70,700 - $118,400, depending on skills, experience, and location.
• Paid time off, including parental leave, vacation, sick, and bereavement, subject to eligibility.
• Comprehensive benefits package: Medical, Dental, Vision, Disability, Reimbursement Accounts, Employee Assistance Program (EAP), Insurance options, Retirement Plan.

Qualifications

1. Experience in the consumer goods industry with relevant skills.
2. Understanding of beverage formulas and concentrate composition for testing and investigation.
3. Hands-on experience with GCMS and other analytical instruments; ability to interpret chromatography data.
4. Ability to design, execute, and analyze small-scale research experiments independently.
5. Strong prioritization skills to manage multiple testing needs and client requests.
6. Excellent problem-solving and critical thinking skills.
7. Effective verbal and written communication skills.
8. B.S. or M.S. in Chemistry or related field with 2-4 years of relevant experience.

Equal Opportunity Statement

Our company considers qualified applicants with criminal histories in accordance with applicable laws, including the Fair Credit Reporting Act and local ordinances. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, or disability.

PepsiCo is an Equal Opportunity Employer: Female / Minority / Disability / Protected Veteran / Sexual Orientation / Gender Identity.

For more information about your EEO rights, download the EEO is the Law & EEO is the Law Supplement documents. View PepsiCo EEO Policy.

See our Pay Transparency Statement.