Food Technologist Talnt Akron, OH Job Details Full-time $50,000 - $75,000 a year 20 hours ago Qualifications Microsoft Outlook Spreadsheets ERP systems Bachelor's degree Technical Proficiency Cross-functional communication Full Job Description About the

Role:

We are seeking a Food Technologist to join a growing Research and Development team and support the successful development of innovative food products from concept through commercialization. This is an excellent opportunity for a recent graduate in Food Science, Biology, Chemistry, Nutrition, Microbiology, Biochemistry, or a related scientific discipline to begin a career in food manufacturing. The role offers hands-on experience in new product development, ingredient sourcing, procurement, supplier management, food safety, regulatory documentation, and cross-functional collaboration with Research and Development, Quality, Manufacturing, and Supply Chain teams.

Responsibilities:

Support new product development initiatives by sourcing raw materials, ingredients, and packaging components for research and commercialization projects. Identify, evaluate, and compare ingredients based on functionality, quality, cost, availability, nutritional profile, and regulatory compliance. Obtain supplier pricing, product specifications, Certificates of Analysis (COAs), technical documentation, samples, and minimum order quantities. Build and maintain productive relationships with domestic and international ingredient suppliers and manufacturers. Assist with purchasing activities, procurement processes, supplier communications, and sourcing documentation. Maintain accurate ingredient, supplier, and purchasing information within ERP systems and related business applications. Review technical documentation, ingredient specifications, and COAs to ensure compliance with quality, food safety, and regulatory requirements. Monitor ingredient availability, market trends, pricing fluctuations, and emerging ingredient innovations to support sourcing decisions. Research new ingredients, alternative suppliers, and sourcing opportunities using technical resources, scientific literature, and AI-powered research tools. Collaborate with Research and Development, Quality Assurance, Regulatory Affairs, Manufacturing, Purchasing, and Supply Chain teams to support successful product launches. Assist with supplier qualification activities, supplier documentation management, and vendor record maintenance. Identify opportunities to improve sourcing efficiency, procurement workflows, inventory management, and supplier performance. Support additional purchasing, procurement, and product development projects as assigned.

Qualifications:

Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Biology, Chemistry, Biochemistry, Microbiology, Nutrition, Botany, or another related scientific discipline. Recent graduates are encouraged to apply. Comprehensive training in purchasing, procurement, and ingredient sourcing will be provided. Internship, laboratory, manufacturing, research, or academic project experience is preferred but not required. Strong interest in food manufacturing, food ingredients, product development, procurement, purchasing, or supply chain operations. Knowledge of food science principles, ingredient functionality, food processing, or product formulation through academic coursework or laboratory experience. Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills with excellent attention to detail. Effective verbal and written communication skills with the ability to collaborate across cross-functional teams. Proficiency with Microsoft Excel, Word, Outlook, and the ability to quickly learn ERP systems and business software. Ability to prioritize multiple projects and meet deadlines in a fast-paced manufacturing environment. Demonstrated initiative, curiosity, and willingness to learn new technical and business processes.

Desired Qualifications:

Internship or professional experience within food manufacturing, dietary supplements, pharmaceuticals, consumer packaged goods, cosmetics, or another regulated manufacturing environment. Familiarity with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs), food safety systems, HACCP, quality assurance, laboratory operations, or regulatory compliance. Exposure to ingredient functionality, formulation development, raw material evaluation, or supplier qualification processes. Experience using AI tools, scientific databases, or research platforms to evaluate ingredients, suppliers, or market trends. Understanding of procurement, sourcing strategies, inventory management, ERP systems, or supply chain operations. Interest in developing a long-term career in Research and Development, Food Technology, Product Development, Purchasing, Procurement, Strategic Sourcing, or Supply Chain within the food manufacturing industry.