Position : Sensory & Documentation ScientistLocation : Springfield, MissouriRequisition ID: : 25505Leads and administers the sensory program, including sensory panel design, shelf life testing, analytical evaluations, and other various tests. Prepare results and reports from testing. Oversees sensory lab, can standard program, retain program, and sample inventory management. Supports the entire R&D team in creating and analyzing/reviewing documentation related to ingredients and finished goods.Job Duties and Responsibilities:Sensory Program Administration
Leads and administers the sensory program, including determining sensory panel design, shelf life testing, determination of shelf life, appropriate testing protocol and all of sensory operations.
Organize daily sensory testing and sensory panels
Enter data into business systems, e.g. Compusense, Excel, PCM, SalesForce
Maintain organization of can standards, retains, and other samples
Analyze products for study or shelf-life data collection, utilizing specialized laboratory instrument
Lead sensory training for the innovation center as well as application manufacturing sites, including development of training modules, structure of sensory training and conducting the training
Monitor inventory and purchase supplies for the sensory lab area
Track paneling credit for non-R&D panelists, account for redemptions, and request gift card disbursement.
Coordinate sample and document shipments to key sensory customers
Evaluate and disposition can standard candidates via sensory and analytical methods and maintain associated records for standards
Prepare and interpret results and author reports as needed
Documentation Creation and Review:
Create and review documents such as Product information Bulletins, Certificates of Analysis, Product labels, Manufacturing Instructions, Product Inspection Plans (testing requirements), etc.
Setting up new raw materials in all applicable systems
Reviewing customer and external specifications
Generate and design documents, technical and other documentation related to sample collection and R&D workflows
Draft documentation for new product development, keeping abreast of product development activities, the need for additional revisions, corrections and monitoring through finalization
Facilitate and track document routing through the quality/regulatory approval processes, in partnership with scientists
Support the standardization and streamlining of documents and documentation in coordination with R&D
Production of Applications and Formulations
Produce and create application formulations as assigned
Perform basic and advanced lab testing as required
Produce ingredient formulations as assigned
Maintain a working proficiency with PCM, SAP, SalesForce, Label system, Regulatory and Quality systems
Safely operate lab and pilot plant equipment related to: spray drying, dry blending, enzyme modification/paste/concentrate, fermentation, natural flavors, core powders, nutritional powders concentrated liquids, core liquids, cheese, butterfat and end use applications
Develop and produce pilot manufacturing instructions and processes
Safely operate Pilot Plant Spray Dryer, including sanitation of the dryer equipment
Cleaning and Maintenance
Participate in clean up schedules for Lab, Pilot Plant, Cooler and Freezer with the assistance of Product Development, Applications, and Innovation Scientists
Comply with all required safety procedures and utilize required personal protective equipment for all tasks.
Maintain GMP’s throughout the facility
Teamwork and Collaboration
Actively contribute to continued improvement of laboratory and pilot plant systems
Participate in sensory panels
Data entry
Maintain safe working conditions for employees and compliance with all state and federal regulations regarding health and safety issues
Dedicate effort to safety as we expect every employee to leave work in the same condition as they arrive
Follow all DFA good manufacturing practices (GMP) and work in a manner consistent with all corporate regulatory, food safety, quality, and sanitation requirements
Exhibit the values and ethics of Dairy Farmers of America through honesty, discretion, and sound judgment
Adhere to all DFA Quality, Safety and GMP policies and procedures and report any nonconformity
Attend required training, including but not limited to, Safety, GMP, GLP
The requirements herein are intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by employee, but is not a complete list of responsibilities, duties, and skills required. Other duties may be assigned
Undergraduate degree
5+ years of prior work experience, especially demonstrating technical responsibility
Ability to follow written and oral instruction
Strong interpersonal skills and presentation skills
Experience with Microsoft Office
Ability to lift a maximum of 55 lbs
Theoretical knowledge of sensory principles
Understanding of products with ability to draft related documents
Effectively communicate with sensory team members and others within product development, innovation, services and technical services
Actively contribute to continued improvement of sensory lab and related systems
Able to work both quickly and accurately and follow developed procedures, contributing to continuous improvement where applicable
Ability to gain knowledge of and execute aseptic lab techniques
Able to work well with others and be willing to learn
Ability to follow written and oral instruction
Strong interpersonal skills
Learning mentality to expand understanding of the innerworkings related to this position
Demonstrates organizational skills, paying special attention to details
Ability to gain solid working knowledge of and execute food science principles
Task flexibility with ability to pivot based on priorities
Must be able to read, write and speak English
An Equal Opportunity Employer
