Associate Scientist - Taste Innovation & Applications

Our purpose is unlocking the potential of people, nature, and science to nourish the world. We consistently incorporate social and environmental impact into decision making given its importance to the success and profitability to our business.

At Kalsec, we are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment by embracing the wisdom and strengths that diversity brings.

Job Summary:

This Associate Scientist is an early-career role designed for an individual with a degree in Food Science or a related scientific discipline who is interested in developing expertise in food applications and taste innovation. This position supports the development, preparation, and evaluation of food and application prototypes to meet both customer needs and internal research objectives.

The Associate Scientist will gain hands-on experience applying Taste Innovation ingredients across food processing and ingredient delivery applications, while developing expertise in Kalsec’s product development systems and processes. This role will contribute to the development and optimization of Taste products and formulations, with a focus on key application categories such as sauces, dressings, and snacks.

Essential Job Responsibilities:

• Support the Taste Innovation Team in the development of new Taste formulations, codes, and blends to meet customer and internal business needs.
• Design and conduct experiments to support Taste Business Unit objectives and build technical expertise in core application categories, including sauces, dressings, and/or snacks.
• Prepare, evaluate, and document food and application prototypes in a laboratory and experimental kitchen environment.
• Conduct laboratory testing and application studies, including stability studies, preliminary sensory evaluations, and prototype preparation.
• Perform analytical testing as needed, including spectrophotometry, pH, moisture, and color measurements, and accurately document results.
• Provide technical support to members of the Taste Innovation Team, cross-functional partners, and customers as needed.
• Support scale-up trials and collaborate with cross-functional teams, including Process Engineering, Quality, and Regulatory.
• Maintain laboratory equipment and ensure work is performed in accordance with applicable safety, quality, and laboratory standards.
• Prepare technical reports, presentations, and project documentation, ensuring relevant findings and information are communicated to appropriate stakeholders.
• Stay current on industry trends, emerging technologies, ingredients, and regulatory developments relevant to taste innovation and food applications.
• Participate in continuing education opportunities, including seminars, conferences, and workshops, as directed.
• Maintain a safe, clean, and organized work environment in accordance with company safety, environmental, and quality policies.
• Follow all applicable Quality Assurance procedures and requirements as defined by company policies and the Quality Manual.

Qualifications:

Bachelor’s degree with 2-4 years related experience or equivalent combination of education and experience.

Required

• Degree in Food Science or a related scientific discipline, such as Chemistry, Biology, Chemical Engineering, or a similar field.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Demonstrated ability to collaborate effectively in a team environment.

Desired

• Internship, co-op, academic research, or professional experience within the food or food ingredient industry.
• Comprehensive knowledge and strict adherence to food safety standards.
• Familiarity with flavor creation, formulation, and sensory evaluation techniques in food applications.

Working Conditions:

• Work is primarily performed in a laboratory and/or experimental kitchen environment using standard laboratory, food preparation, and office equipment.
• Regular handling of liquids, dry powders, solvents, reagents, and other materials, including hazardous materials, in accordance with established safety procedures.
• Approximately 70% of work time may involve standing and 30% sitting.
• Regular use of computers and standard office equipment.
• Travel of up to 10% may be required.

This job description is not intended to cover every detail or every aspect of the job identified. Other duties may and will be assigned based upon the workload and needs of the department.

Kalsec® is committed to providing safe food to its customers. This position requires completing annual food safety training. Food safety training is conducted through Kalsec® electronic training program and on-the-job training in each department. The organizational chart identifies personnel responsible for covering food safety responsibilities in the absence of this position.