Senior Food Technologist – Meat Systems (R&D)

ExecuSource; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 70,000 - 105,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Relocation package available

Job summary

ExecuSource is seeking a Senior Research & Development Technologist to lead in-plant experiments that drive innovation in packaging, equipment, product development, and process optimization, while providing technical expertise to strengthen quality, compliance, and efficiency at the St. Charles facility.

You will design and run trials, guide QA and operations on meat science, optimize formulations, ensure USDA/FDA compliance, and collaborate with teams to deliver value and cost improvements.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Food Science or related field with 5+ years meat processing plant experience (Master's preferred).
• Strong knowledge of meat science, including non-meat ingredients and their functionality in processed meats.
• Experience with experimental design and statistical analysis.
• Able to conduct applied research in lab and red meat processing environments.

Responsibilities

• Independently design, plan, and execute experiments, then analyze results and report findings on assigned projects.
• Lead in-plant trials supporting packaging, equipment, product development, and process improvements aligned with customer needs and quality standards.
• Provide technical guidance to plant QA and operations teams on food quality, chemistry, and production issues.
• Optimize ingredients and formulations to improve product performance and identify cost-saving opportunities.
• Partner with operations on food safety and product development research while staying current on industry and scientific advancements.
• Ensure compliance with USDA and FDA regulations, including standards of identity, ingredients, nutrition labeling, and label claims.

Skills

Meat science

Experimental design

Statistical analysis

Communication

Travel up to 40%

Education

Bachelor's degree in Food Science

Master's degree preferred

Job description

Location: St. Charles, IL

Location: St. Charles, IL

Pay: $70k to 105k (+ bonus potential + annual merit increases)

Schedule: Onsite Daily

• Relocation Package Available

Summary

Senior Research & Development Technologist leading in-plant experiments that drive innovation in packaging, equipment, product development, and process optimization, while providing technical expertise that strengthens product quality, compliance, and operational efficiency.

What You Get To Do

• Independently design, plan, and execute experiments, then analyze results and report findings on assigned projects.
• Lead in-plant trials supporting packaging, equipment, product development, and process improvements aligned with customer needs and quality standards.
• Provide technical guidance to plant QA and operations teams on food quality, chemistry, and production issues.
• Optimize ingredients and formulations to improve product performance and identify cost-saving opportunities.
• Partner with operations on food safety and product development research while staying current on industry and scientific advancements.
• Ensure compliance with U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulations, including standards of identity, ingredients, nutrition labeling, and label claims.

What You Need To Succeed

• Bachelor's degree in Food Science or a related field plus 5+ years of meat processing plant experience (Master's degree preferred)
• Strong knowledge of meat science, including non-meat ingredients and their functionality in processed meats
• Experience with experimental design and statistical analysis
• Ability to conduct applied research in both lab and red meat processing environments
• Strong communication skills with both technical and non-technical audiences, from plant teams to executives and customers
• Ability to travel up to 40%
• Peer-reviewed publications in meat quality are a plus

What's In It For You

• Growth potential
• Stability in the industry
• Relocation package available
• Excellent company benefits offered