The R&D Process Specialist is responsible for designing, optimizing, and validating product, process, equipment, and packaging parameters to support a smooth handover to Operations. This position will assess process and resource needs, coordinate production trials, validate operating parameters, and ensure complete work instructions, validation reports, and handover documentation. 

The R&D Process Specialist will drive production efficiency, consistency, process control, and operational readiness for new and improved products. The Process Specialist will work closely with R&D, Production, Quality, Planning, Engineering, and other internal and external partners to support scale-up, troubleshooting, equipment commissioning, training, and successful commercialization.  

Primary Responsibilities: 

• New Product Scale-Up & Validation 

• • Assess equipment, process, and resource needs for new products and collaborate with Product Developers to scale up formulations and processes. 

• • Lead pre-trial discussions with Production, Quality, Planning, and R&D to define trial plans, responsibilities, and resource requirements. 

• • Validate product and process parameters through three successful test runs before turnover to Operations. 

• • Prepare detailed validation reports with clear actions and timelines, and lead post-trial reviews to capture key learnings, issues, and next steps. 

• • Formalize the release of new products to Operations through completion of the handover process and stakeholder sign-off. 

• Operational Readiness & Documentation 

• • Collaborate with Production and Engineering on scale-up activities and initial operator training. 

• • Create detailed work instructions for each new product in partnership with Production supervisors and leads. 

• • Update standard operating procedures and work instructions as needed and ensure complete documentation for new or improved recipes and processes. 

• • Build accessible project documentation in alignment with the new product development procedure using the appropriate tools. 

• • Ensure formula and know-how confidentiality. 

• Process Improvement & Production Support 

• • Partner with Operations to identify process improvement opportunities that support efficiency, product quality, and process control targets. 

• • Provide real-time production troubleshooting and support root cause analysis for quality or processing issues. 

• • Conduct Production and Quality training as needed. 

• • Update rework and fat-wash matrices as needed while collaborating with Product Developers to optimize current formulations using new ingredient technologies. 

• Technology, Equipment & Commissioning 

• • Monitor emerging equipment, process, and ingredient technologies and propose solutions that may differentiate products or improve performance. 

• • Collaborate with Group and Local Engineering teams to assess new technologies and equipment. 

• • Support commissioning of new production and packaging lines, including the design and execution of test protocols across commissioning stages. 

• • Validate recipes and process parameters for new lines through three successful production runs and complete standard validation and handover requirements before full commercialization. 

• • Maintain strong performance of R&D laboratory equipment by standardizing pilot-scale processes and coordinating equipment upkeep. 

• Compliance, Reporting & Collaboration 

• • Support TQM, SQF, and FSMA requirements and comply with food safety procedures during raw material selection, product development or modification, and sample preparation. 

• • Report food safety and quality issues to the immediate supervisor and/or Head of Quality. 

• • Provide monthly reporting to the R&D Manager or Senior R&D Manager. 

• • Maintain a functional link with business unit specialists at Puratos Headquarters and build an active network across customers, machine suppliers, researchers, vendors, and the international Puratos R&D community. 

• • Complete other assignments as directed by the direct supervisor. 

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Food Science, Food Engineering, or a related field. 

• Minimum of 2 years of experience in a manufacturing environment or food product development; food, baking, or baking-ingredient experience is preferred. 

• Proficiency with standard Windows-based applications. 

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English; Spanish language skills are a plus. 

• Hands-on, analytical, and detail-oriented approach with the ability to design and follow defined processes while remaining pragmatic. 

• Proactive, self-motivated, and comfortable taking initiative in a changing environment. 

• Ability to manage multiple projects, organize priorities, and collaborate effectively in project-based teams. 

• Strong networking skills, a positive attitude, and a passion for food and innovation. 

• Physical Demands: Occasionally lift up to 25 lbs; frequent sitting, occasional, walking, constant visual acuity (near/far) 

The following common allergens are processed in our facilities: wheat, eggs, dairy, and soy. 

Looking for a Career for Good? We offer a competitive compensation and benefit package, designed to promote a Happier, Healthier You which includes: 

Compensation: 

• Annual compensation based on skills and experience ranging from $75,000 – $93,000​. 

• Additional compensation earned through a 10% or targeted annual bonus. Amount based on personal and company performance.​ 

Benefits: 

• Medical coverage starts the first of the month—no waiting period 

• Immediate 401(k) eligibility with fully vested matching contributions 

• Over 5 weeks of paid time off in your first year 

• Free life coaching, onsite health exams, and 24/7 access to Registered Nurses 

• Lifestyle Spending Account 

If you are a solution oriented and analytical thinker with a passion for leading and inspiring people, we invite you to experience the magic of being yourself and join us for “a career for good.” 

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