R&D Scientist, Confectionery & Bakery Formulations

irca Group; Affton (MO); On-site; USD 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

Irca Group in Affton, Missouri, is seeking an R&D Scientist to develop and optimize formulations for variegates, sauces, caramels, and confectionery products. This role involves daily laboratory and pilot-plant work, supporting scale-up and commercialization of new and existing products.

The ideal candidate holds a Bachelor’s degree in Food Science or a related field with 1–3 years of experience in food manufacturing or R&D, and possesses strong analytical, communication, and organizational

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Food Science, Food Engineering, Chemistry, or related discipline.
• 1–3 years of relevant experience in food manufacturing, research and development, academia, or equivalent.
• Working knowledge of Microsoft Office applications (Word, Excel, Outlook).

Responsibilities

• Prepare laboratory and pilot plant samples for product development and scale-up activities.
• Prepare samples for tastings, sensory evaluations, and customer presentations.
• Conduct analytical testing on finished products, development samples, and raw ingredients; record results.
• Maintain and organize the laboratory, inventory, storage, and equipment.
• Ensure laboratory equipment is cleaned, calibrated, and maintained per procedures.
• Support plant trials, pilot runs, and other project activities as assigned.
• Perform duties to support R&D projects and departmental objectives.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Problem solving

Organizational skills

Verbal communication

Written communication

Collaboration

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Food Science / related field

Tools

Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook)

Job description

Irca Group in Affton, Missouri, is seeking an R&D Scientist to develop and optimize formulations for variegates, sauces, caramels, and confectionery products. This role involves daily laboratory and pilot-plant work, supporting scale-up and commercialization of new and existing products.

The ideal candidate holds a Bachelor’s degree in Food Science or a related field with 1–3 years of experience in food manufacturing or R&D, and possesses strong analytical, communication, and organizational