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R&D Product Development Principal Scientist

AT PepsiCo
PepsiCo

R&D Product Development Principal Scientist

Plano, TX

Overview

As R&D Principal Scientist, you will be part of a diverse and fast paced team in leading the PepsiCo Foods North America R&D Macrosnacks portfolio's according to defined business growth objectives. The position will lead Refresh, Reframe, and Breakthrough innovation product and process development along with PEP+ and technical brand stewardship initiatives within the PFNA Region Macrosnacks R&D team.

Role will also include new idea generation, prototype development, product optimization, process development, line qualification, process scale-up, and production start-up for test market and national launch of new products for the PFNA team. With minimal support, this role will immediately take on product development for Macrosnacks projects to help continue drive growth and the AOP agenda.

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In addition to extensive product and process development experience, ideal candidate will require strong food science fundamentals and process design and optimization experience. Strong project management, experimental design/analysis, and a team mentality will be required to move projects forward. This position may also support projects on other platforms within the Region requiring strong technical excellence to quickly learn new platforms, contribute, and deliver results.

Responsibilities

  • Work effectively & in collaboration with cross-functional (Brand/Innovation Marketing, Insights, Engineering and Operations (including 3PM)) and R&D discipline partners to deliver innovative consumer winning propositions.
  • Define and qualify ingredients, validate formulations in process and with consumers and/or develop specifications for new product launch or product improvements.
  • Expand innovation portfolio through partnership with external (3PM) vendors to drive formulation development, complete capability/consumer testing and ensure PepsiCo quality standards are upheld
  • Leverage data-driven product and process design including the application of consumer product testing, sensory, analytical data to ensure excellent product launches
  • Apply Technical & Business Governance processes effectively from feasibility stage through to scale-up & post launch support.
  • Provide technical and business risk assessment/perspectives and mitigation plans related to new product development
  • Engage support of internal subject matter experts & team as needed
  • Provide updates to key R&D and cross-functional executive leadership

Compensation and Benefits:

  • The expected compensation range for this position is between $102,800 - $172,100.
  • Location, confirmed job-related skills and experience will be considered in setting actual starting salary.
  • Bonus based on performance and eligibility; target payout is 12% of annual salary paid out annually.
  • Paid time off subject to eligibility, including paid parental leave, vacation, sick, and bereavement.
  • In addition to salary, PepsiCo offers a comprehensive benefits package to support our employees and their families, subject to elections and eligibility: Medical, Dental, Vision, Disability, Health, and Dependent Care Reimbursement Accounts, Employee Assistance Program (EAP), Insurance (Accident, Group Legal, Life), Defined Contribution Retirement Plan.

Qualifications

  • M.Sc., Ph.D or B.Sc. degree in Food Science, Chemical Engineering or related field with 7+ years of experience in R&D Food Industry.
  • Experience with cold form and baked technologies preferred
  • Strong knowledge in ingredient functionality & formulation chemistry, and demonstration of product innovation.
  • Strong leadership and collaboration skills
  • Experience in creative, innovative problem solving.
  • Solid communication skills, written and verbal.
  • Demonstrated capability to effectively manage complex projects or multiple projects simultaneously.
  • Demonstrated understanding of how to incorporate business needs into technical decisions.
  • Ability and interest to work in laboratory, pilot plant and manufacturing scale environments.
  • Willingness to travel up to 40%
  • Demonstrated ability to function effectively in a dynamic and fast-paced environment as well as manage multiple projects simultaneously.
  • Adapts to change well with the personal leadership to influence and positively motivate self and peers.
  • Strong organization, documentation, and formula management skills.

EEO Statement

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, or disability status.

PepsiCo is an Equal Opportunity Employer: Female / Minority / Disability / Protected Veteran / Sexual Orientation / Gender Identity

If you'd like more information about your EEO rights as an applicant under the law, please download the available EEO is the Law & EEO is the Law Supplement documents. View PepsiCo EEO Policy.

Please view our Pay Transparency Statement

Client-provided location(s): Plano, TX, USA
Job ID: PepsiCo-327084-en-us
Employment Type: Other

Perks and Benefits

  • Health and Wellness

    • Health Insurance
    • Health Reimbursement Account
    • Dental Insurance
    • Vision Insurance
    • Life Insurance
    • Short-Term Disability
    • Long-Term Disability
    • HSA
    • Pet Insurance
    • Mental Health Benefits
    • On-Site Gym
  • Parental Benefits

    • Fertility Benefits
    • Adoption Assistance Program
    • Family Support Resources
    • On-site/Nearby Childcare
  • Work Flexibility

    • Flexible Work Hours
    • Remote Work Opportunities
    • Hybrid Work Opportunities
  • Office Life and Perks

    • Commuter Benefits Program
    • Snacks
    • Company Outings
    • On-Site Cafeteria
    • Holiday Events
  • Vacation and Time Off

    • Paid Vacation
    • Paid Holidays
    • Personal/Sick Days
    • Leave of Absence
    • Summer Fridays
  • Financial and Retirement

    • 401(K)
    • 401(K) With Company Matching
    • Stock Purchase Program
    • Financial Counseling
  • Professional Development

    • Tuition Reimbursement
    • Mentor Program
    • Access to Online Courses
    • Leadership Training Program
    • Associate or Rotational Training Program
    • Internship Program
  • Diversity and Inclusion

    • Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Program
    • Employee Resource Groups (ERG)

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