Associate Scientist

Job Description

Assist in the formulation and development of new food products, especially tomato-based and plant-forward items. Conduct bench-top experiments, pilot plant trials, and sensory evaluations. Support shelf-life studies, ingredient functionality testing, and product stability assessments. Maintain accurate records of formulations, procedures, and test results. Collaborate with cross-functional teams including Quality Assurance, Production, and Marketing. Ensure compliance with food safety, regulatory, and labeling requirements. Participate in continuous improvement initiatives and innovation brainstorming sessions.

Responsibilities

• Formulate and develop new food products, focusing on tomato-based and plant-forward items.
• Conduct bench-top experiments, pilot plant trials, and sensory evaluations.
• Support shelf-life studies, ingredient functionality testing, and product stability assessments.
• Maintain accurate records of formulations, procedures, and test results.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams including Quality Assurance, Production, and Marketing.
• Ensure compliance with food safety, regulatory, and labeling requirements.
• Participate in continuous improvement initiatives and innovation brainstorming sessions.

• Bachelors degree in Food Science, Food Technology, or a related field.
• 02 years of experience in a food manufacturing or R&D environment (internships count).
• Basic understanding of food chemistry, microbiology, and processing techniques.
• Strong analytical, organizational, and communication skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and familiarity with lab equipment.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a dynamic setting.

The role is based in a manufacturing and R&D facility in Osceola, AR. The environment includes both office and lab settings, as well as time spent in pilot plant and production areas. Frequent movement between lab, office, and production floor. Exposure to food ingredients, processing equipment, and temperature variations. Use of personal protective equipment (PPE) such as lab coats, gloves, hairnets, and safety glasses is required in designated areas.

The pay range for this position is $49000.00 - $69000.00/yr.

Medical, dental, and vision insurance with high employer contributions
Life and disability insurance
Critical illness coverage
Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs)
Wellness program with premium discounts for participants
Financial & Retirement

401(k) retirement plan with company match
Competitive compensation and performance-based bonuses
Time Off

Paid vacation
Paid holidays
Sick leave (where applicable)
Professional Growth

Opportunities for advancement and internal mobility
Training and development programs
Exposure to cross-functional teams and innovation projects

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Osceola,AR.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Jun 20, 2025.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 30,000 consultants and more than 4,500 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing due to a disability, please email ... for other accommodation options.