R&D Process Engineer

Actus Nutrition in; Eden Prairie (MN); On-site; USD 80,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Actus Nutrition in Minnesota is seeking an R&D Process Engineer to drive trial support at our manufacturing facilities and optimize protein ingredients. You will gather samples, test processes, and collaborate with Operations, Quality, R&D and Engineering to ensure compliant, high‑quality outcomes.

The role emphasizes solving process issues, improving efficiency, and delivering sustainable improvements in dairy and protein manufacturing while advancing new technologies and best practices.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in chemical engineering, food science, dairy processing or related field.
• 3+ years of experience in dairy or food processing.
• Knowledge of Whey Protein Manufacturing Operations.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to identify and troubleshoot process issues.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to collaborate effectively with cross functional teams.
• Experience with regulatory compliance and quality controls standards.

Responsibilities

• Aid in trial support at manufacturing facilities by obtaining samples, collecting data, and draft report findings
• Support the optimization of specialty protein manufacturing processes, ensuring performance aligns with company strategy, regulatory requirements, and customer quality expectations
• Plan, design, and execute process improvement initiatives focused on quality compliance, operational efficiency, and cost reduction
• Monitor critical process parameters, analyze performance data, troubleshoot process variability, and implement corrective and preventive actions
• Develop, improve, and standardize process documentation, including SOPs and best practice guidelines, to support operational consistency and regulatory compliance
• Partner with production, quality, R&D, and engineering teams to design and implement sustainable process improvements
• Analyze and report on process performance metrics such as yield, efficiency, throughput, and quality trends; communicate findings and recommendations to leadership
• Stay current on emerging processing technologies and industry best practices, recommending and supporting the adoption of new technologies where appropriate
• Provide R & D Project Support, perform special projects and other responsibilities as needed.

Skills

Analytical skills

Problem solving

Communication

Cross-functional collaboration

Regulatory compliance

Whey protein ops

Education

Bachelor's degree in chemical engineering / food science / dairy processing

Job description

At Actus Nutrition , our focus is to create high-quality ingredients designed to optimize health and nutrition. We are passionate and dedicated people. Each day, we collectively explore new, innovative ways to enhance product performance and value through our broad human and animal nutrition portfolios. The human nutrition division focuses on industry leading whey and milk protein isolates, concentrates, and hydrolysates. The animal nutrition division is a leading supplier of functional fats, proteins and carbohydrates. Both divisions are backed by the speed, execution and passion it takes to exceed the expectation of our customers. We offer a comprehensive benefits package which includes medical, dental, vision and life insurance as well as a healthy 401(k) company match program.

The R&D Process Engineer is responsible for specific projects that include trial support at our manufacturing facilities, process optimization for ingredients, gathering samples, and testing. This role focuses on driving improvements in process efficiency, product quality, and functionality. The position partners closely with Operations, Quality, R&D, and Engineering to ensure processes are optimized, compliant, and aligned with business and customer objectives.

• Aid in trial support at manufacturing facilities by obtaining samples, collecting data, and draft report findings
• Support the optimization of specialty protein manufacturing processes, ensuring performance aligns with company strategy, regulatory requirements, and customer quality expectations
• Plan, design, and execute process improvement initiatives focused on quality compliance, operational efficiency, and cost reduction
• Monitor critical process parameters, analyze performance data, troubleshoot process variability, and implement corrective and preventive actions
• Develop, improve, and standardize process documentation, including SOPs and best practice guidelines, to support operational consistency and regulatory compliance
• Partner with production, quality, R&D, and engineering teams to design and implement sustainable process improvements
• Analyze and report on process performance metrics such as yield, efficiency, throughput, and quality trends; communicate findings and recommendations to leadership
• Stay current on emerging processing technologies and industry best practices, recommending and supporting the adoption of new technologies where appropriate
• Provide R & D Project Support, perform special projects and other responsibilities as needed.

Position Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in chemical engineering, food science, dairy processing or related field
• 3+ years of experience in dairy or food processing
• Knowledge of Whey Protein Manufacturing Operations
• Strong Analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to identify and troubleshoot process issues
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to collaborate effectively with cross functional teams
• Experience with regulatory compliance and quality controls standards

The salary range for this position is $80,000.00 - $90,0000.00 USD based on experience. Applicable pay within the posted range may vary based on factors including, but not limited to education, skill set and depth of experience.

Actus Nutrition is an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic as defined by federal, state, or local laws.

Equal Opportunity Employer

This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.OPEN