R&D Process Specialist

The R&D Process Specialist is responsible for designing, optimizing, and validating product, process, equipment, and packaging parameters to support a smooth handover to Operations. This position will assess process and resource needs, coordinate production trials, validate operating parameters, and ensure complete work instructions, validation reports, and handover documentation.

The R&D Process Specialist will drive production efficiency, consistency, process control, and operational readiness for new and improved products. The Process Specialist will work closely with R&D, Production, Quality, Planning, Engineering, and other internal and external partners to support scale-up, troubleshooting, equipment commissioning, training, and successful commercialization.

Primary Responsibilities:

• New Product Scale-Up & Validation

• • Assess equipment, process, and resource needs for new products and collaborate with Product Developers to scale up formulations and processes.
• • Lead pre-trial discussions with Production, Quality, Planning, and R&D to define trial plans, responsibilities, and resource requirements.
• • Validate product and process parameters through three successful test runs before turnover to Operations.
• • Prepare detailed validation reports with clear actions and timelines, and lead post-trial reviews to capture key learnings, issues, and next steps.
• • Formalize the release of new products to Operations through completion of the handover process and stakeholder sign-off.

• Operational Readiness & Documentation

• • Collaborate with Production and Engineering on scale-up activities and initial operator training.
• • Create detailed work instructions for each new product in partnership with Production supervisors and leads.
• • Update standard operating procedures and work instructions as needed and ensure complete documentation for new or improved recipes and processes.
• • Build accessible project documentation in alignment with the new product development procedure using the appropriate tools.
• • Ensure formula and know-how confidentiality.

• Process Improvement & Production Support

• • Partner with Operations to identify process improvement opportunities that support efficiency, product quality, and process control targets.
• • Provide real-time production troubleshooting and support root cause analysis for quality or processing issues.
• • Conduct Production and Quality training as needed.
• • Update rework and fat-wash matrices as needed while collaborating with Product Developers to optimize current formulations using new ingredient technologies.

• Technology, Equipment & Commissioning

• • Monitor emerging equipment, process, and ingredient technologies and propose solutions that may differentiate products or improve performance.
• • Collaborate with Group and Local Engineering teams to assess new technologies and equipment.
• • Support commissioning of new production and packaging lines, including the design and execution of test protocols across commissioning stages.
• • Validate recipes and process parameters for new lines through three successful production runs and complete standard validation and handover requirements before full commercialization.
• • Maintain strong performance of R&D laboratory equipment by standardizing pilot-scale processes and coordinating equipment upkeep.

• Compliance, Reporting & Collaboration

• • Support TQM, SQF, and FSMA requirements and comply with food safety procedures during raw material selection, product development or modification, and sample preparation.
• • Report food safety and quality issues to the immediate supervisor and/or Head of Quality.
• • Provide monthly reporting to the R&D Manager or Senior R&D Manager.
• • Maintain a functional link with business unit specialists at Puratos Headquarters and build an active network across customers, machine suppliers, researchers, vendors, and the international Puratos R&D community.
• • Complete other assignments as directed by the direct supervisor.

Requirements:

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Food Science, Food Engineering, or a related field.

• Minimum of 2 years of experience in a manufacturing environment or food product development; food, baking, or baking-ingredient experience is preferred.

• Proficiency with standard Windows-based applications.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English; Spanish language skills are a plus.

• Hands-on, analytical, and detail-oriented approach with the ability to design and follow defined processes while remaining pragmatic.

• Proactive, self-motivated, and comfortable taking initiative in a changing environment.

• Ability to manage multiple projects, organize priorities, and collaborate effectively in project-based teams.

• Strong networking skills, a positive attitude, and a passion for food and innovation.

• Physical Demands: Occasionally lift up to 25 lbs; frequent sitting, occasional, walking, constant visual acuity (near/far)

The following common allergens are processed in our facilities: wheat, eggs, dairy, and soy.

Looking for a Career for Good? We offer a competitive compensation and benefit package, designed to promote a Happier, Healthier You which includes:

Compensation :

• Annual compensation based on skills and experience ranging from $75,000 – $93,000.

• Additional compensation earned through a 10% or targeted annual bonus. Amount based on personal and company performance.

Benefits:

• Medical coverage starts the first of the month—no waiting period

• Immediate 401(k) eligibility with fully vested matching contributions

• Over 5 weeks of paid time off in your first year

• Free life coaching, onsite health exams, and 24/7 access to Registered Nurses

• Lifestyle Spending Account

If you are a solution oriented and analytical thinker with a passion for leading and inspiring people, we invite you to experience the magic of being yourself and join us for “a career for good.”

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