Sr. R+ D Scientist

Sr.

R+ D Scientist

This role requires working a minimum of 4 days working onsite in our Arden Hills office.

Land O'Lakes Dairy Foods R&D is seeking a highly skilled and motivatedSenior Scientistto join ourRefrigerated Sweet Snacksproduct development team.

This role is ideal for a seasoned food science professional with deep expertise in water-continuous colloidal systems and ingredient functionality.

You'll lead & propose innovative and foundational research, drive product development, and ensure our products meet the highest quality standards.

Key Responsibilities


* Lead foundational research projects to build deep scientific understanding that fuels long-term innovation, reduces technical risk, and creates a competitive edge in product development.


* Develop robust research plans, integrate emerging technologies, and apply new methodologies to achieve project goals.


* Lead cross-functional project teams focused on new product development, product renovation/exploration, process optimization, and cost savings.


* Apply advanced experimental design, statistical modeling, and analytical techniques to guide decision-making.


* Communicate technical results, risks, and recommendations to stakeholders across the organization.


* Mentor junior scientists and technologists, providing guidance and work direction as needed.


* Collaborate across business functions to enhance processes and anticipate future needs.

Education & Qualifications

Required Qualifications


* Bachelor's degree in food science, dairy science, chemistry, microbiology, or related field.


* 5 or more years of experience with a combination of product development and research.


* Advanced understanding of food science principles and practical application to formulations, processes, and ingredient functionality.


* Advanced understanding of product/process/package interactions, food processing, and experimental design.


* Advanced knowledge of analytical principles and food testing methodologies.


* Proven ability to lead test method development and integrate testing into product development.


* Travel up to 25%

Preferred Qualifications


* M.S.

or Ph.D.

in Food Science or a related field.

Minimum 2+ years of experience in R&D, preferably with leadership in experimental trials within production settings.


* Strong project management, cross-functional collaboration, and communication skills.


* Experience with analytical techniques and data interpretation for dairy based desserts & puddings.


* Demonstrated critical and creative problem-solving abilities, adaptability, and business acumen.

Salary range: $91,120 - $136,680 (in most cases, candidates offered employment can expect to be hired at a pay rate near the middle of our salary ranges)

About Land O'Lakes, Inc.

Join us and be part of a Fortune 250, farmer- and member-owned cooperative that is reimagining the business of food.

We have been named a Top...