Associate Food Scientist - Chicago

Job Summary:

Under direct supervision, researches, conducts experiments, gathers data, develops preliminary findings and prepares written reports for the development of new products beginning at conception through successful commercialization.  Follows established protocols and work plans and drafts for review technical proposals and reports.

Position Responsibilities:

• Develop new products beginning at the concept phase through successful commercialization.
• Conduct plant trials and new product start-ups.
• Plan, prioritize and complete tasks effectively and efficiently.
• Maintain accurate and complete records.
• Work with pilot plant equipment under supervision.
• Learn and utilize on-line specification system.
• Execute experiments and prepare results for review.
• Conceptualize and develop new products prototypes.
• Manages individual tasks and works under supervision.
• Assist team with product cutting, plant trials, and testing
• Maintains a clean, organized and safe work area, including the cleaning of equipment, utensils and work surfaces.

Position Requirements:

• BS in Food Science or related field required. MS preferred
• 1 year relevant work experience
• Pro-active self-starter, willing to accept responsibility for business tasks.
• Proven ability to handle multiple projects simultaneously.
• Ability to handle multiple tasks simultaneously.
• Clear, concise written and verbal communication.
• Proficient with Microsoft Office software.
• Problem solving skills.
• Requires knowledge in food product design, formulation, ingredient functionality and interaction, process design, product scale-up, plant testing and commercialization.

Physical Requirements:

• Work in and around cramped/confined spaces
• Climbing to various heights via stairs or ladders
• Exposure to manufacturing environments for periodic extended work days to include:  loud noise, excessive heat, cold, wet, and slippery conditions. 
• Use of tools, equipment, and machinery
• Driving a company or rental vehicle for up to 6 hours as needed
• May travel up to 30% of time.  Must be able to travel independently and as a responsible CAG representative.
• Exposure to food tasting and smells including all food allergens

Last Modified:  March 2017

Compensation 

Pay Range:$59,000-$79,000

The annual salary listed above is the expected offering for this position. An employee’s actual annual salary will be based on but not limited to: location, relevant experience/level and skillset, while balancing internal Conagra employees’ equity. Conagra Brands will comply with applicable law regarding minimum salaries for exempt employees.

Our Benefits

We care about your total well-being and will support you with the following, subject to your location and role:

• Health: Comprehensive healthcare plans, wellness incentive program, mental wellbeing support and fitness reimbursement

• Wealth: Great pay, bonus incentive opportunity, matching 401(k) and stock purchase plan

• Growth: Career development opportunities, employee resource groups, on-demand learning and tuition reimbursement

• Balance: Paid-time off, parental leave, flexible work-schedules (subject to your location and role) and volunteer opportunities

Our Company

At Conagra Brands, we have a rich heritage of making great food. We aspire to have the most impactful, energized and inclusive culture in food. As a member of our 18,000+ person team across 40+ locations, you are empowered to reach your potential, make an impact and own your career. We're in the business of building champions – within our people and our iconic brands like Birds Eye®, Slim Jim® and Reddi-Wip®.

Our focus on innovation extends beyond making great food, it also reflects our commitment to embracing new solutions that positively impact our team, the communities we serve and the health of our planet. Foodies Welcome.

Conagra Brands is an equal opportunity employer and considers qualified applicants for employment without regard to sex, race, color, religion, ethnic or national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, pregnancy, leave status, disability, veteran status, genetic information and/or any other characteristic or status protected by national, federal, state or local law. Reasonable accommodation may be made upon request.