R&D Engineer - Protein Processing Equipment

Description:

Cozzini, LLC is looking for an R&D Engineer – Protein Processing Technology to join our growing innovation team. As a leading manufacturer of food processing equipment for the protein industry, we develop world-class machinery used to grind, mix, pump, emulsify, and process meat and protein products for customers around the globe.

In this role, you'll play a key part in researching, designing, developing, and testing next-generation protein processing solutions. Working closely with cross-functional teams, you'll help create sanitary, high-performance equipment that improves efficiency, enhances product quality, supports food safety, and drives sustainability for our customers.

Job Responsibilities

• Research industry trends, customer challenges, and emerging technologies to develop innovative machinery and processing solutions for the protein industry.
• Transform concepts into functional prototypes by conducting testing, evaluating performance data, identifying improvements, and supporting product launches.
• Design, develop, and troubleshoot mechanical systems, including grinding, mixing, vacuum, pumping, conveying, and material-handling equipment.
• Collaborate with electrical, controls, automation, and manufacturing teams to ensure successful product development and integration.
• Apply sanitary design best practices and ensure equipment complies with applicable USDA, FDA, OSHA, CE, and food-processing standards.
• Partner with Sales, Manufacturing, Quality, Service, and customers to develop solutions that address operational needs and market demands.
• Support product improvement initiatives, intellectual property development, and technology roadmaps that strengthen Cozzini's position as an industry leader.

Qualifications

• Strong engineering fundamentals with experience in capital equipment, industrial machinery, food processing equipment, automation, or manufacturing environments.
• Interest in protein processing technologies and commercial food production systems.
• Ability to collaborate across mechanical, electrical, controls, and manufacturing disciplines.
• Hands-on problem-solving skills with a passion for testing, troubleshooting, innovation, and continuous improvement.
• Strong communication skills and the ability to work effectively within cross-functional teams.

Benefits:

• Health Insurance
• Health Savings Account w/ Employer contribution
• Flexible Spending Account w/ Employer contribution
• Dental Insurance
• Company Paid Disability Insurance
• Employee Assistance Program
• Company Paid Life Insurance
• Paid holidays
• Paid time off
• 401k
• Vision Insurance

Cozzini, LLC is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EOE/M/F/Vets/Disabled) employer and welcomes all qualified applicants. Principals only, please no third parties.

Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics Engineering, or a related engineering discipline.
• Minimum of 3 years of R&D engineering experience, preferably within food processing, protein processing, industrial equipment, or capital equipment manufacturing environments.
• Proven experience designing, developing, and testing industrial machinery or food processing equipment.
• Proficiency with CAD software, including SolidWorks and AutoCAD.
• Knowledge of sanitary equipment design principles and applicable industry regulations, including USDA and FDA standards.
• Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and problem-solving abilities.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to work effectively across cross-functional teams.
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects and priorities in a fast-paced product development environment.
• Willingness to travel as needed to support equipment testing, field trials, customer visits, and equipment installations.