Research & Development / Product Development ScientistPerformance Pet Products - Mitchell, SD 57301OverviewLevel Experienced Position Type Full Time Job Shift 1st (Day Shift) Travel Percentage None Category Quality AssuranceDescriptionFarmers Union Industries, LLC, also known as FUI, is a leading agricultural-based manufacturing company headquartered in Redwood Falls, MN. Our current operations include Central Bi-Products, Northland Choice, Midwest Grease, Artex Manufacturing, Redwood Farms Meat Processors, and Performance Pet Products. Please visit our website at fuillc.com to learn more!Performance Pet, located in Mitchell, SD, works with brands both large and small to create an assortment of canned dog and cat foods.
Learn more about what we do at fuillc.com/performance-pet-products/.We are currently accepting applications for the brand-new position of Research & Development / Product Development Scientist! We offer a competitive salary and a benefits package that includes health, dental, vision, PTO, paid holidays, an impressive 401K match, and much more!ScheduleMonday-Friday, 7:00am-4:30pmAdditional hours may be necessary on a required or voluntary basisAreas of AccountabilityAll areas of accountability to be delivered with GRIT - our values of Generosity, Relationships, Integrity, and TeamworkProduct Development & Commercialization Process Improvement & Cost OptimizationEssential Duties and ResponsibilitiesLead formulation and reformulation efforts for wet pet food productsDevelop samples to support customer requests and commercialization efforts; revise samples, as requestedEvaluate ingredient/supplier alternatives and formulation adjustments to improve cost, quality, yield, and operational performanceImprove product appearance, texture, viscosity, palatability, and consistencyEnsure formulations and products meet AAFCO, FDA, FSMA, SQF, GMP, HACCP, and customer requirementsReduce reliance on external formulation partners by building internal technical capabilitySupport shelf-life studies, product validation work, and packaging evaluationsMaintain organized records of formulations, testing, project timelines, and trial resultsPartner with quality assurance to investigate product deviations, complaints, and process inconsistenciesAssist sales and operations during customer meetings, launches, and commercialization discussionsWork with operations to improve product consistency, process capability, and manufacturing efficiencyMaintain regular and predictable on-site attendanceSituations may arise that require employees to temporarily or permanently assume responsibility for tasks not specifically outlined in this job description. Employees may be requested to work additional hours and/or accommodate a heavier than normal workload.QualificationsBachelor's degree in food, animal, or meat science, nutrition, chemistry, biology, or related field, preferred; associates degree with significant relevant work experience may be considered3-7+ years of experience in pet or human food product development, formulation, commercialization, and/or process improvementExperience with thermal processing, canned foods, meat systems, sauces, gravies, emulsions, or retort systems, preferredAdvanced written and verbal communication within a cross-functional teamStrong organizational skills with the ability to maintain accurate recordsAbility to understand and operate basic computer systems and iPads; proficient in Microsoft Word, Excel, and OutlookAbility to manage multiple projects, change priorities, and problem-solveAbility to perform safety sensitive positionAbility to work in a facility that processes multiple proteins including beef, pork, chicken, turkey, fish, lamb, rabbit, kangaroo, and eggMust be 18 years of age or older for insurance purposesPhysical RequirementsStand and/or walk up to 80% of the workdayOccasionally lift heavy objects up to 50 poundsOccasionally bend at the knees and/or waist in potentially awkward positionsConsistently turn and/or twistOccasionally climb steps up to 10 feet and perform duties on an elevated surfaceAbility to distinguish colorsAbility to work in an environment with extreme cold/hot, wet/slippery conditions, and/or loud noise levels