Product Expert, R&D

Position title: Product Expert, R&D
 

Reporting to: Director, R&D - Cocoa
 

Location: Eddystone, PA
 

Barry Callebaut is a global organization poised for growth; a company which has embraced the vision to delight its customers, while out-performing its competitors, a business which is committed to sustainability, has innovation in its DNA, is a leader in complex manufacturing and supply chain solutions and is focused on being a best-in-class employer. Barry Callebaut seeks diverse and passionate people who thrive in a dynamic environment, focused on continuous learning, living BC’s Values and of course loving chocolate.

About the role: 
 

The R&D Product Expert will be responsible for the Pilot Lab and Discovery program activities in R&D team in Eddystone, PA.  The R&D Product Expert is the expert in translating his /her expertise on cocoa beans and semi-finished cocoa materials into recipes and process settings.

Key responsibilities include: 
 

• Lead expertise on cocoa products and cocoa processing
• Maintain an organized state in the process lab areas
• Carry through of Design of Experiments for Application Lab trials
• Assist in performance of R&D trials on both lab and production scales
• Assist in Process Improvement Studies for R&D/Production
• Understand the Product Development Process as it pertains to Research and Development functions. 
• Maintain supplies inventory and order items when needed. 
• Proper operation, standardization & maintenance of pilot lab equipment. 
• Following Safety and Good Housekeeping requirements. 
• Identify and compile lists of potential research subjects in accordance with study objectives and parameters, as appropriate to the individual position
• Collect and analyze data
• Request or acquire equipment or supplies necessary for the project
• Supervise undergraduate students working on the research project (maintaining records on assignment completion, acting as liaison/mediator between the undergraduate students and the faculty researcher)
• Attend project meetings, summarize project results, prepare progress reports
• Travel to field sites to collect and record data and/or samples as appropriate to the specific objectives of the study
• Review and edit data to ensure completeness and accuracy of information; follow up with subjects to resolve problems or clarify data collected
• Write and contribute to publications
• Develop research protocols and follow Innovation project guidelines.
• R&D sensory panel management
• Perform miscellaneous job-related duties as assigned
• Must promote a safe working environment and good GMP’s
• Committed to providing a safe food product
• Works within all regulatory requirements
• Perform other assignments as delegated by R&D

Education: 
 

• Bachelor of Science in a technical field (Biology, Chemistry, Food Science) – Food Science degree preferred (relevant experience will be considered in lieu of degree)

Work experience: 
 

• Interpersonal skills with the ability to work in a team-oriented environment, including cross-functional Project Teams involving members from Marketing, Supply, Manufacturing as well as R&D. Organizational skills and problem-solving skills.
• Oral communication skills to effectively provide feedback to project teams or immediate supervisor. 
• Written communication skills for accurate data entry and concise lab reports. 
• Provide technical support to all pillars of R&D. 
• Timely execution of multiple project objectives within established timelines. 
• Self-motivated, seeking information from others to accomplish objectives. 
• Ability to display a degree of flexibility regarding changing project priorities. 
• Desire to learn, apply, and enhance skill set while seeking new opportunities. 
• Statistical techniques
• Develop critical observations and attention to detail
• Knowledge with MSOffice Software applications.
• Must be able to lift 50 lbs unassisted
   

What you can expect from Barry Callebaut:
 

• Competitive compensation package including salary, benefits, and vacation time
• 12 paid holidays PLUS your birthday off!
• Collaborative atmosphere with like-minded individuals who are passionate about chocolate
• The ability to grow your career within an organization that values development and internal career growth