POSITION - Director of Microbiology and Process Development
LOCATION - Rochester, NY
JOB SUMMARY:
The Director Microbiology and Process Development, in collaboration with the CTO, is responsible for the commercial implementation of novel approaches to make quality and safe food products using our innovative processing technologies. The individual will lead the regulatory validation of commercial processes and assist the Product Development and Food Safety teams with the process development and execution of shelf-life studies to bring new innovative food products to market.
WHAT SUCCESS LOOKS LIKE
You effectively deduce regulatory needs to inform the company's microbiology research strategy, timelines, and budgets with the commercial priorities of the organization.
You effectively oversee the execution of the microbiology research plans to deliver quality results and collaboration with the Product Development, and Engineering teams to enable us to bring concepts to full-scale implementation.
Through your leadership and expertise, you create a safe work environment, prioritizing a culture of growth opportunities, training, and development.
SELECTION CRITERIA
A Master's degree in Microbiology, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Food Science, or a related field is required; PhD is preferred.
7+ years of relevant research and development experience including microbiological and analytical testing methods to access product safety and stability.
Experience with designing and conducting functional or sensory testing to assess product shelf-life.
Previous experience with BSL-2+ level pathogenic micro-organisms preferred.
Proven track record of innovative research and development projects.
Supervisory experience, and excellent interpersonal skills.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Microbiology Research and Development
Develop precise experimental plans, timelines, and budgets for the execution of microbiology research needed to meet the goals, objectives, and vision of our company;
Define, design, and coordinate challenge studies to characterize the behavior of various processing parameters in relation to microorganisms of concern;
Lead the Interpretation, drafting, and communication of research results and conclusions to the relevant regulatory agencies;
Identify relevant external partners to conduct validation studies for processes for various food products, and provide oversight of external labs;
Lead the sourcing, drafting and submission of reports and applications for research grants;
Commit to continual improvement by reading and applying the latest scientific literature and methodologies to better the outcomes of the foundational research.
Pilot Plant Research and Development
Provide oversight as needed with the quality and food safety team on projects related to product development, product quality, production process analysis, and improvement;
Provide oversight as needed with the engineering team on ideation, design, and evaluation of benchtop systems and processes with an understanding of food safety standards;
Maintain a comprehensive understanding of all manufacturing operations, end-products, raw materials, packaging materials, and quality specifications and standards.
General
Accommodate flexible scheduling and hours as required based on the needs of the business;
Work openly and cooperatively with senior management and all departments and cross-functional teams to mitigate risks, identify opportunities, create value, and fulfill strategic organizational goals;
Identify complex issues as they arise and provide recommended solutions to the management team; solve problems with a broad perspective to identify creative and innovative solutions;
Ensure that appropriate communications take place by facilitating and participating in meetings, encouraging an open-door policy, and proactively seeking feedback from team members; foster an engaged, collaborative and non-competitive work environment by encouraging accountability, open communication, and teamwork;
Ensure that the reputation and image in the community is consistent with our company's values and that business relationships with all stakeholders are not compromised;
Follow all safety rules and regulations while performing work assignments and adhere to all policies and procedures as specified in company manuals and as directed in the employee handbook;
Proactively seek and participate in available company-sponsored training to develop and advance knowledge base and skill set;
Stay up to date with the latest safety and production management best practices and concepts;
Foster a work environment consistent with our company culture: prioritize development, growth opportunities, accountability, open communication, and an entrepreneurial mindset;
Perform all other duties as assigned by management in a professional and efficient manner.
COMPENSATION AND POSITION DETAILS
This is a full-time, salaried position with benefits. Compensation commensurate with experience. We are an equal opportunity employer. Women, minorities, veterans, and persons with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply. Candidates must have valid work authorization and be able to work in the U.S. without company sponsorship