An Associate Food Scientist typically works within food development, testing, and research, assisting in the creation and improvement of food products. The job description can vary by company, but common duties and responsibilities often include: **Employee Type:** Full time **Location:** IL Oak Brook **Job Type:** Research and Development **Job Posting Title:** Senior Food Scientist **Job Description:** **Schedule:** 8 am to 5 pm CDT / Hybrid (on-site Tues to Thurs)​ **Work Location:** 2015 Spring Road Suite 400, Oak Brook, IL 60523 ​ **Benefits:** Medical, Dental, Vision, 401(k) with match, STD/LTD/AD&D/Life, HSA, FSA, EAP, Hospital indemnity, Accident Insurance, Identity and Fraud Protection Plan, Legal, and Critical Illness.​ **Salary, based on experience and other qualifications:** $56,000 to $87,000 Annually with bonus potential ​ **Key Responsibilities:** **Product Development** : + Assist in the development of new food products or improve existing ones. + Work with cross-functional teams to innovate and test new ingredients, formulations, and packaging. + Conduct experiments to analyze food texture, flavor, appearance, and nutritional value. **Food Quality and Safety** : + Support the quality control process by testing raw materials and finished products. + Ensure food products comply with safety regulations and quality standards. + Perform shelf-life testing and stability studies to ensure products maintain quality over time. **Research and Testing** : + Design and carry out laboratory experiments to study food properties and improve formulations. + Analyze data and interpret results from food trials to guide product improvements. + Assist in sensory evaluations to assess taste, texture, and aroma. **Documentation and Reporting** : + Maintain accurate and detailed records of experiments, tests, and results. + Prepare and present reports for senior food scientists or management. + Ensure all documentation is in compliance with regulatory requirements. **Collaboration** : + Collaborate with marketing, production, and regulatory teams to ensure that new food products align with consumer preferences and company goals. + Assist in the development of product formulations based on market trends and customer needs. **Ingredient Sourcing and Evaluation** : + Research and evaluate new ingredients or processing techniques to improve product quality and cost-effectiveness. + Assist with sourcing suppliers and vendors for new ingredients and materials. **Required Skills and Qualifications:** + **Education** : Typically, a Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Chemistry, Biology, or a related field. + **Technical Skills** : Knowledge of food processing, chemistry, microbiology, and food safety regulations. + **Analytical Skills** : Ability to analyze and interpret laboratory data. + **Communication** : Strong written and verbal communication skills to document findings and collaborate with other teams. + **Attention to Detail** : Precision and accuracy in conducting experiments and analyzing results. + **Teamwork** : Ability to work effectively in cross-functional teams. **Desired Experience:** + **Experience** : Some experience (internships or entry-level) in food science, product development, or a related field. + **Familiarity with Regulations** : Understanding of food industry regulations (e.g., FDA, USDA guidelines). + **Software** : Familiarity with data analysis software and lab tools commonly used in food science. **Work Environment:** + **Setting** : Typically work in labs, kitchens, or production facilities. + **Hours** : Standard office hours, though work may extend during product launches or testing phases. **Career Path:** + Progression could lead to roles like Food Scientist, Senior Food Scientist, or Product Development Manager. This role often requires a balance of scientific knowledge, creativity, and collaboration. It is an excellent opportunity for those interested in the intersection of science and food innovation. **EEO Statement:** Winland Foods seeks to recruit, develop, and retain the most talented people from a diverse candidate pool, and as a global company we believe our success is enhanced by fostering equity and inclusion in the workplace. Therefore, Winland Foods is committed to providing an environment of mutual respect where equal employment opportunities are available to all applicants and teammates without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, military or veteran status, and any other characteristic protected by applicable law. Winland Foods is a leading private label food manufacturer of pasta, dry dinners, condiments, syrups, and more with nearly 3,000 employees operating out of 14 production facilities in US, Canada, and Italy. As a ‘newly’ established company, we are creating the building blocks for an innovative and agile organization that is purpose driven - delivering high quality food to our customers and communities. We foster an environment that encourages all employees to be heard, and values their contributions and ideas. By joining Winland Foods, you become a part of a new team that values passion, collaboration, and strives to prosper with our customers. To all recruitment agencies: Winland Foods does not accept unsolicited agency resumes/CVs. Please do not forward resumes/CVs to Winland Foods employees, or any company location(s). Winland Foods is not responsible for any fees related to unsolicited resumes/CVs.