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Planterra is a fully funded Plant-Based Protein start-up in Boulder County –CO. It’s an investment by the JBS Company, the world’s largest protein producer and the second largest food company in the world.Planterra is building its core commercial team and looking for a talented and driven professional to help build the best plant based protein company in the world. The Category Manager will be based at our Corporate Office in Lafayette, CO.The primary responsibility of this role is creation of new plant based protein products. This position frequently collaborates with Marketing, Sales, and Operations.RESPONSIBILITIES
Develops new products leveraging expertise in food chemistry, food ingredient functionality and experimental design
Works collaboratively and develops strong relationships with cross functional teams including Marketing, QA, Operations and Sales to solve key business issues and drive profitable growth
Translates consumer needs into product innovation and renovation
Manages and oversees R&D technical functions such as sensory, shelf life testing, legal label claims, product/packaging improvement
Manages and develops scientific approaches to business needs in areas of flavor and microbial shelf life
Independently completes research projects to design, develop and improve new and existing product portfolio
Provides product costs based on commodities, ingredients, and product formulations
Responsible for sourcing ingredients and leveraging vendor expertise in ingredient functionality
Creates product samples by working with various production equipment, such as grinders, injectors, dicers, slicers, or chillers, etc.
Tests ideas on processing or packaging attributes that would improve product performance or desirability
Develop and maintain product specification, ingredient statements, allergen information and formulas for seasoning blends; then incorporate respective information into the label design process as needed
Participates in production trials and works with new product start-ups- ensure products are made to spec.
Works with production personnel on scale up of new products, suggests initial order quantities for ingredients and packaging, obtain cost of materials
Provides support on technical and/or quality issues
Act as a technical resource to support quality issues, answer questions about products, production capabilities, labeling regulations
Present new products to customers; often involves cooked preparation of multiple items or full meals
Prepare product samples and ship to customers as requested
General awareness of USDA & FDA regulations, restricted/limited ingredients and approved processing procedures
Optimizes cost/quality and process improvements contributing to increased product quality and profitability for the business
Designs tests, interpret results and recommend next steps in product development
Assists QA/QC in the analysis of product that generates customer complaints
REQUIREMENTS:
Education: BS in Food Science or related
3+ years of progressive experience in R&D of food product development and technical services leading teams
Ability to work in accordance with safety and food safety policies
Intermediate ability in Microsoft Office products, specifically Microsoft Excel
Interpersonal and team skills for working with employees at all levels both internal and external
Experience with a start-up or new business venture preferred
Ability to travel as needed (approx. 20%)
EOE/M/F/Vet/Disabled
