Technical Serv Analyst II at Simmons Prepared Foods, Inc. in Siloam Springs, Arkansas

Job Description:

Responsible for the oversight and management of raw materials throughout the Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) and data captured in electronic data collection systems. Tasks range from ensuring raw material specifications are accurately documented, workflows are optimized to ensure raw material specification creation and changes are performed to meet timeline deliverables and requirements are in alignment with respective suppliers. In addition, the position will take the lead in tracking and trending key R&D metrics such as project timeline adherence and cost savings. Position must be able to effectively collaborate and communicate with key cross functional team members (R&D, Food Safety/Quality, Nutrition, Sourcing, Operations and external Suppliers).

- This is a salary exempt position

Raw Material Specifications. Helps with screening and approval of new or alternate raw materials. Ensures raw material specifications are created and maintained. Serves as the cross functional lead between Quality, Food Safety, Sourcing, Nutrition and Operations to ensure process workflow and inputs are performed in a timely and accurate manner. In addition, represents R&D in the supplier approval process and decision-making process.

Project Life Cycle (PLM) Process Mapping & Process Improvement. Leverages key workflows to create and manage revisions of raw materials. In addition, position will explore opportunities within all workflows connected to Technical Services with the objective to eliminate complexity and improve timeline performance.

Product Development Performance Metrics. Takes the lead in monitoring, analyzing and reporting on key Product Development metrics that evaluate the overall performance of activities and project timelines. Specific examples, but not limited to are project timeline adherence, overall cost savings and supplier performance. Metrics will be shared with peers, key stakeholders and leadership for potential areas of focus and improvement.

Supports Technical Service Cross Functional Team Members (e.g. Product Development, Process, Nutrition and Regulatory to ensure finished product compliance). Supports project needs and fellow team members in tasks which help to understand ingredient functionality, ensure formulation compliance and in executing commercialization steps. The position will utilize key operating systems such as formulation, product life cycle and ERP systems to organize and maintain key data points for making key business decisions. Execution of benchtop tests and plant test support presence is expected on occasion to enhance formula, product and process experience.

Participates as a member of the Team. Participates in the ongoing development, communication and implementation of team concepts, programs and policies; coordinates work to ensure best practices with all team members. Attends appropriate team meetings. As a member of the Team, fosters strong cohesiveness regarding all major issues; e.g., direction, annual plan, budget, policy changes, etc. Accepts responsibility to quickly identify any areas that lack cohesiveness, bringing them to the attention of the team leader and working with the team in a supportive manner to resolve issues and actively look for ways, and reinforce actions needed, to achieve synergy possible within the larger organization.

Simmons Operating systems principles and objectives: Is familiar with Simmons' established operating systems (e.g. quality, security, office environment, company policies, LEAN); understands the responsibility to maintain familiarity with the systems and this position's role in support of these systems - including a consideration of the impact of individual actions on the systems and the responsibility to communicate concerns and improvement ideas.

Performs other duties as necessary in support of business objectives: This position description is intended to guide the activities of the person in this position and is not intended to limit the thinking and creativity of the person as to the work of this function nor is it intended that this describe all the work that may be required of the person in this position.

Physical Activities: Enters and locates information on a computer. Visually verifies information, often in small print. Communicates with Customers, Vendors, or Employees via telephone, in person, and/or electronic mail. May present information to small or large groups. Must be able to work in various temperatures. Move about in a manufacturing environment, kitchen environment, office environment, and surrounding property. Lifts heavy boxes, equipment or other required objects (up to 50 lbs.) as needed. Will use laboratory/kitchen/cooking equipment.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): As needed in required environment.

Travel: Travels domestically to and from multiple facilities or work-sites or customer visits, often requiring overnight stays. Approximately 10% travel.

Technical Experience: Minimum 3 years' experience in product development and/or technical services is required. Must have excellent computer skills with respect to the Microsoft Office Suite. Experience with formulation software is a plus. Will be expected to quickly learn company business integration software suites. Strong data entry skills are required (accurate and efficient). Intermediate to advanced level skills in Excel and PowerPoint as well as experience preparing documents for presentation. Experience in commercial product development and in the pet food or food industry is desirable. Knowledge of nutrition and food formulation is a plus. A working knowledge of applicable regulations in various countries is desirable.

Industry Experience: R&D knowledge in the food manufacturing industry preferred.

Minimum Education: Bachelor's Degree in Meat Science or Animal Science, or Food Science, or 4 years related experience.

Preferred Education: Master's degree in related field.