Carolina CoPacking→
Food Scientist at Carolina CoPacking in Henderson, NC
Skills
Job Description
Food Scientist
We are seeking a dynamic and forward-thinking food scientist who can bring their technical expertise to the table and play a vital role in developing and refining formulations for our current and future products. As a valued member of our project teams, you will have the opportunity to channel your creativity and innovation to bring new products to life, from initial concept to market launch. With your invaluable contributions, we will unlock the full potential of our brand and enhance the nutritional quality, taste, and texture of our food products. Stay ahead of the curve by exploring new advancements and driving product innovation in partnership with our company.
To thrive in this role, you must possess the ability to interpret and apply scientific findings to the world of food, converting them into groundbreaking product concepts. Additionally, a firm grasp of business objectives is crucial for translating them into clear project goals. Excitingly, we are looking for individuals who are team players and share our unwavering passion for product development.
Our Food Scientist is responsible for developing, testing, and maintaining high-quality food products that meet company standards, regulatory requirements, and customer expectations. This role involves hands-on product tasting, analytical testing, and collaboration across departments to ensure consistency, safety, and innovation in all products produced by the facility.
Key Responsibilities
Product Development & Research
- Conduct research and development (R&D) for new product formulations, line extensions, and process improvements.
- Experiment with ingredient functionality, flavor profiles, textures, and stability to achieve desired product characteristics.
- Maintain accurate records of formulations, processing parameters, and sensory evaluations.
- Evaluate and approve raw materials and new ingredient suppliers based on quality, performance, and compliance standards.
- Liaising with relevant stakeholders to address concerns about food quality and safety.
- Utilizing advanced formulation software to create and maintain formulations.
- Playing a pivotal role in bringing new products to life, from conceptualization to successful launch.
- Coordinating the arrangement and shipment of sales samples.
- Updating product information sheets and labels for effective sales presentation.
- Accurately recording, analyzing, and summarizing research data for informed decision-making.
- Collaborating with independent laboratories for comprehensive testing.
- Maintaining the MRP system by keeping it up to date and accurate.
- Ensuring strict compliance with GMP and other safety regulations.
- Performing any additional duties assigned by the supervisor.
Product Tasting & Evaluation
- Taste and evaluate all products during development and production for flavor accuracy, consistency, texture, and appearance.
- Lead sensory panels and coordinate tasting sessions with internal staff and customers as needed.
- Document results and recommend adjustments to formulations or processes based on sensory and analytical data.
Analytical Testing & Data Review
- Prepare, perform, and review all analytical testing and quality data, including but not limited too, pH, Brix, viscosity, color, moisture, and microbiological analysis.
- Ensure testing equipment is properly calibrated and maintained for accuracy and reliability.
- Analyze test results to identify trends or deviations and recommend corrective actions when necessary.
- Prepare technical reports summarizing findings for management and customer review.
Customer Collaboration
- Work one-on-one with customers to establish and refine recipe standards that align with their brand and quality expectations.
- Translate customer requirements into production-ready formulas while ensuring cost efficiency and manufacturability.
- Participate in customer tastings, product trials, and formulation meetings to ensure satisfaction and consistency.
Cross-Department Coordination
- Collaborate closely with the Customer Success Department to address customer feedback, troubleshoot issues, and develop improvement plans.
- Partner with Cook Room and Bottle Room Associates to ensure recipes are prepared, cooked, and packaged according to approved standards.
- Provide technical guidance to production staff during scale-up, batching, and process trials.
- Assist the Quality Assurance team in developing and implementing product specifications, SOPs, and regulatory documentation.
Regulatory & Documentation
Ensure all product formulations and processes comply with FDA, SQF, GMP and other company compliance regulations, as well as applicable food safety regulations.
Maintain up-to-date records of all formulations, test results, and production data in accordance with company documentation standards.
Support the preparation of product labels, ingredient statements, and nutritional facts panels.
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Food Science, Food Technology, Chemistry, or related field required; Master’s degree preferred.
- Minimum 3–5 years of experience in food product development, manufacturing, or quality assurance.
- Strong knowledge of food chemistry, microbiology, sensory science, and process engineering.
- Hands-on experience with analytical testing equipment and sensory evaluation.
- Excellent communication skills and ability to collaborate with cross-functional teams.
- Strong organizational and data analysis skills with attention to detail.
- Knowledge of FDA, SQF regulations, HACCP, Acid/Acidified, PCQI and GMP standards.
Working Conditions
- On-site position within a food manufacturing environment.
- Requires daily tasting and sensory evaluation of products.
- Involves working in production areas (Cook Room, Bottle Room, all GMP zones) and laboratory settings.
- Occasional customer visits or off-site product demonstrations may be required.
Physical Requirements
- Ability to stand for extended periods in production areas.
- Must be able to safely handle ingredients, lab equipment, and small production tools.
- Capable of lifting up to 25 lbs.
BENEFITS:
- Experience a diverse range of comprehensive benefits, including medical, vision, and dental coverage.
- Take time away from work and recharge with generous paid time off and "dream" days off.
- Participate in exciting company events that foster camaraderie and team spirit.