Beverage Scientist

Job Overview

The Beverage Scientist plays a vital role in crafting and refining beverage formulas and processes within the National Beverage portfolio. This individual manages product development from initial concept through commercialization, ensuring formula enhancements and process optimization.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform accurate experimental procedures and sample production.
• Design manufacturing processes that consistently deliver the desired flavor, appearance, and texture.
• Refine and improve existing product formulations and production methods.
• Conduct sensory assessments and compile detailed reports.
• Collaborate with Marketing and Regulatory teams to ensure product development alignment.
• Carry out production line trials at manufacturing facilities to verify process accuracy, maintain quality, and ensure successful scale-up.
• Facilitate commercialization by working with Quality, Regulatory, Procurement, and Manufacturing teams to uphold approved profiles, specifications, and project timelines.
• Utilize knowledge of quality control testing and Good Manufacturing Practices to support development and implementation of products into manufacturing.
• Collect, interpret, and summarize process quality data and trends.
• Use computer skills proficiently, especially Microsoft Office applications like Excel and Word.
• Analyze complex situations requiring careful judgment and evaluation.
• Review and validate formulas and technical documentation.
• Maintain an understanding of FDA regulations and policies.
• Coordinate cross-functional communication regarding labeling and compliance issues.
• Travel as needed to company locations based on business requirements.
• Stay informed on current and emerging industry issues and innovations affecting products and technologies.
• Advance professional knowledge through educational programs, industry publications, networking, and professional membership participation.
• Perform additional duties as assigned.

Language and Communication

Demonstrate capability to read, comprehend, and interpret reports and documents. Respond effectively to inquiries or complaints from customers, regulators, and internal stakeholders. Present information clearly to management.

Physical Requirements

Job duties demand regular walking, standing for extended durations, sitting, lab work requiring hand coordination, and talking or listening. Must manage frequent tasks involving manual dexterity, reaching, bending, and ability to lift up to 50 pounds. Reasonable accommodations can be provided for disabilities.

Work Environment

Work settings include potential exposure to manufacturing and warehouse environments requiring personal protective equipment. Noise levels typically moderate but can increase significantly in production areas.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in food science or relevant science discipline along with applicable experience.
• At least 5 years of research and development experience including commercialization and in-plant roles; preference for carbonated beverage industry exposure.
• Strong mathematical and scientific computation ability, accurately documenting procedures.
• Advanced analytical thinking and problem-solving capabilities employing systematic approaches.
• Exceptional attention to detail with high accuracy standards.
• Familiarity with FDA standards and regulations.
• Experience with Genesis and Tracegains/FoodLogiQ is advantageous.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to handle multiple projects with competing timelines.
• Willingness to adopt flexible work hours to support production trial runs.
• Highly autonomous worker capable of operating with minimal supervision.
• Certification as an IFT Food Scientist favored.

Equal Opportunity

LaCroix Sparkling Water embraces diversity and provides equal employment opportunities irrespective of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, gender identity, veteran status, or sexual orientation.