Senior Research & Development Scientist I LC

Summary

Our Research and Development department is on the forefront of product development and innovation. It is easy to be dedicated when you’re a part of something much bigger than yourself. We’ve got an insatiable appetite for making a difference.  The ideal candidate will have an integral role in leading the product development of our next wave product innovations, while also lending technical support to our growing base business. We are looking for a candidate with a strong food science foundation, and a demonstrated expertise in product innovation, to help La Colombe advance its’ mission of making healthy and delicious coffee beverages

Responsibilities

• Execute research and development plans and strategies for product development in support of company objectives
• Design and execute experiments based on project objectives, excellent record keeping, data collection and analysis and preparing project summaries
• Plan and carry out development work in lab and pilot scale; design, develop, and lead tests to qualify new products and to support changes to existing products; while having a mindset to scale-up and production processes
• Conduct analytical measurements like, pH, viscosity, density, able to design and execute shelf-life studies, brix, total solids etc.
• Manage technical development projects focusing on product development, process, and consumer testing to help La Colombe improve and launch more innovative beverage products
• Lead and document development projects all the way from conceptualization to commercialization – this includes budget and target within certain time constraints
• Communicate project requirements and recommendations as well as status to internal customers and external stake holders
• Lead, assist, and work directly with plant processing and production personnel to ensure trial runs and start-up operations are properly performed
• Follow La Colombe’s safety procedures and Good Manufacturing procedures and practices
   

Requirements

• Minimum B.S. Food Science or related degree. Advanced degree strongly preferred
• 5-8 years of food industry experience required, dairy and/or non-dairy is preferred
• Extensive ingredient, flavor development, and product stability, and coffee knowledge
• Background in process and product development and commercialization of food processes is required. Beverage and Dairy Alternative Beverage processing would be a big bonus. Proven track record of leading product development projects including timeline development / management, testing/trials, operational launch and scale
• Familiarity with basic research tools and statistical analysis
• Comfortable with ambiguity and are energized by the process of building something from the ground up
• Innate curiosity for understanding complex food systems from a physical and chemical perspective
• Maintain clean & safe manufacturing environment within all facilities
• Excellent written and verbal communication
• Must be a self-starter able to work in a fast-paced environment and handle multiple projects/tasks at any given time
• Willingness to travel (10-20%)
   

About Us

Chobani is a food maker with a mission of making high-quality and nutritious food accessible to more people, while elevating our communities and making the world a healthier place. In short: making good food for all. In support of this mission, Chobani is a purpose-driven, people-first, food-and-wellness-focused company, and has been since its founding in 2005 by Hamdi Ulukaya, an immigrant to the U.S. The Company manufactures yogurt, oat milk, and creamers – Chobani yogurt is America's No.1 yogurt brand, made with natural ingredients without artificial preservatives. Following the 2023 acquisition of La Colombe, a leading coffee roaster with a shared commitment to quality, craftmanship and impact, the Company began selling cold-pressed espresso and lattes on tap at 32 cafes, as well as Ready to Drink (RTD) coffee beverages at retail.  

 Chobani uses food as a force for good in the world – putting humanity first in everything it does. The company’s philanthropic efforts prioritize giving back to its communities and beyond: working to eradicate child hunger, supporting immigrants, refugees and underrepresented people, honoring veterans, and protecting the planet. Chobani manufactures its products in New York, Idaho, Michigan and Australia, and its products are available throughout North America and distributed in Australia and other select markets. 

For more information, please visit www.chobani.com and www.lacolombe.com, or follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn.

Chobani is an equal opportunity employer. Chobani will not discriminate against any applicant for employment on any basis including, but not limited to: race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, military and/or veteran status, marital status, predisposing genetic characteristics and genetic information, or any other classification protected by federal, state and local laws.