Duties & Responsibilities:
A technically proficient food scientist that provides applications lab support to the Flavor Applications Lab
through hands on product development. Project turnaround time, accuracy and communication of project
results are critical to success, as well as an ability to make independent decisions. The incumbent is
responsible for completing their own projects and supporting other application scientists and flavorists in
the lab. Specific responsibilities include the following.
1. Formulate product concepts to demonstrate flavor creation innovation that supports customer?s
requests, proactive growth opportunities, and market trends.
2. Ability to lead and work in a cross-functional team for specific customer opportunities.
3. Successful completion of all the tasks associated with projects to which the incumbent is assigned
including keeping relevant parties informed of project status. This includes, but is not limited to, R&D
management, business development, sales, and customers.
4. Effectively interface with such diverse groups as flavor chemistry, business development, sales,
marketing, operations, purchasing, regulatory, and finance.
5. Reverse engineer formulations to deliver prototypes and concepts, as required.
6. Evaluate flavors, create new flavor blends and make recommendations to satisfy project
requirements.
7. Participation in the sensory evaluation of own and other?s projects.
a. Active participation in taste panels where appropriate.
b. Participate in all supplemental tastings of products as needed.
8. Provide technical expertise for customers through conference calls, video calls, in-person customer
visits, and on-site working sessions.
9. Travel to customer meetings and industry trade shows to represent Virginia Dare Applications. Must
be able to travel to the Carteret, NJ headquarters a few times per year.
10. Follows all site safety and GLP practices. Maintain work area in a safe, neat and organized manner.
a. Adheres to all Virginia Dare policies and procedures.
SKILLS/EXPERIENCE REQUIRED:
Education: BS or MS in Food Science, Biology, Chemistry or Engineering
Experience:
o Minimum 10 years in R&D, including applications or product development for a CPG
company.
Experience working with the following product areas a plus.
o RTM (ready to mix) beverages such as protein shakes, pre-workouts, hydration stick packs,
etc.
o RTD (ready to drink) beverages such as carbonated soft drinks, juices, hydration drinks,
energy drinks, coffee and tea, dairy and non-dairy milks, coffee creamers, etc.
o Fortified nutritional bars and bakery items.
o Pharmaceutical and dietary supplements such as gummies, chews, and tablets.
Proficient in general lab practices.
Proficient in applying and evaluating flavors in products.
o Must be able to taste and smell chemicals, flavors and food products.
Strong leadership skills
Able to deliver accurate results within short deadlines with limited direction and supervision.
Excellent oral and written communication skills.
Possess critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
Demonstrate creativity and innovative ideas for new flavor types.