Meat Application Scientist – Decatur, IL

Position Summary: The Meat Application Scientist will be responsible for working closely with customers from North America and ADM global colleagues in the formulation of plant-based protein ingredients and other functional food ingredients into processed meat systems.  This includes knowledge of formulation methods to improve the cost structure of processed meat system while maintaining or improving product quality. This would entail working closely with customers to incorporate these plant-based proteins and other food ingredients into their processed meat systems as well as working with customers on product re-formulation, new product development, quality assessment and process enhancement. This individual would be responsible for assisting with technical trainings for our customers and distributors in the use of plant-based proteins and other functional ingredients in processed meat applications.

Requirements:

The individual holding this position is expected to have a working knowledge of plant protein ingredients, formula development, process enhancement, processing equipment operation, and ingredient functionality and usage optimization. This position will work closely and cross-functionally with Food Science, Culinary and Commercialization teams. The successful candidate will have strong presentation skills, be self-motivated, agile and team oriented. Prior experience with product development is required. Some knowledge of food regulations and labeling is preferred. This position would require approximately 30% travel and will be based in Decatur, IL. 

Key Skills & Competencies:

• M.S./Ph D. Degree Meat Science or Food Science or with 3-5 years of processed meat industry experience 
• Ability to work independently and within cross-functional teams on Research projects that involve the development and improvement of novel protein solutions
• Ability to collaborate with and have good written and verbal communication skills when working with colleagues in Commercial, Research, and Operations groups

• This individual should have a detailed understanding of the use of food ingredients in the formulation of processed meat systems
• A sound understanding of equipment set up & SOPs used in the development of processed meats
• Proficiency in basic protein analytic techniques & bench top/pilot development work
• The successful candidate will have strong communication skills, be self-motivated and team oriented.
• Be a good teammate with good interpersonal skills
• Self-motivated and willing to work hands-on at the laboratory, pilot, and plant level
• Spanish proficiency a plus but not required

Job Duties:

• Accountable for developing formulas for meat and alternative meat applications
• Accountable for scale-up of product prototypes
• Accountable for designing and running experiments
• Responsible for leading complex and cross-functional projects
• Responsible for developing and maintaining technical – to – technical relationships with customers
• Responsible for supporting nutrition growth strategy initiatives 
• Be self-motivative to challenge and drive R&D efforts through innovation solutions

Knowledge & Skills:

• Sense of urgency, acceptance of change, communication, technical knowledge, quality minded, collaboration, flexibility, teamwork, problem solving, dependability, curiosity, integrity and a commitment to safety.
• MS or higher (Meat or Food Science,) with 5+ years product development experience.
• Developed project management skills including a working knowledge of Microsoft office (Excel, PPT, WORD etc.)

ADM is an equal opportunity employer and makes employment decisions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability and veteran status.

Relocation is available with this position.

This position offers a complete benefit package, including 401K/ESOP, pension, health, life and dental insurance.

ADM requires the successful completion of a pre-employment drug screen and a background check. 

About ADM:

At ADM, we unlock the power of nature to provide access to nutrition worldwide. With industry-advancing innovations, a complete portfolio of ingredients and solutions to meet any taste, and a commitment to sustainability, we give customers an edge in solving the nutritional challenges of today and tomorrow. We’re a global leader in human and animal nutrition and the world’s premier agricultural origination and processing company. Our breadth, depth, insights, facilities and logistical expertise give us unparalleled capabilities to meet needs for food, beverages, health and wellness, and more. From the seed of the idea to the outcome of the solution, we enrich the quality of life the world over. Learn more at www.adm.com.

EEO

ADM is an equal opportunity employer and makes employment decisions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability and veterans status.