Head of Applications and Customer Solutions
The Better Meat Co.
The Head of Applications and Customer Solutions is responsible for leading the department in its action, growth, and R&D. With an extensive protein product development background and in-depth knowledge of both meat science and plant-based meat science, this individual will be the driving force of food applications R&D on behalf of our customers. Experience with mycoprotein is also highly valued. This position will supervise a food scientist, manage and execute small-scale production runs, interface with customers, ingredient suppliers, co-manufacturers, and R&D teams.
Responsibilities include:
- Design, execute, and record experimental plans and direct bench-scale product development.
- Improve existing food products, applications, including identifying, testing, and sourcing new ingredients and processes.
- Work closely with customer R&D teams to effectively utilize BMC ingredients and create custom food products for them.
- Direct processes in the lab and with external labs to conduct analytical testing as needed for QA/QC.
- Lead nutritional testing, labeling, and reporting efforts for all products in collaboration with the QA and Research teams.
- Work with the Technology Department to characterize the functionality, characteristics, and quality of mycelium-based ingredients
- Design, execute, and analyze internal and public-facing sensory analysis. Assist with the implementation and maintenance of all food safety programs.
- Ensure compliance with regulatory and food safety GMPs.
- Maintain detailed lab records and data. Generate quality experimental reports.
Qualifications:
- Bachelor of Science degree in food science, food engineering, culinary science, or a similar degree.
- 3-5 years working in the food industry in a leadership role, preferably leading product development and/or food production.
- Advanced degree or extensive experience in protein product development.
- In-depth knowledge of meat and meat-analogue products, preferably including mycoprotein.
- Occasional after-hours and weekend availability.
- In-depth knowledge of food processing.
- Advanced knowledge of Microsoft Office, Google products (eg, Docs and Sheets) and software applications commonly used in the food industry.
- Advanced technical writing skills with experience writing food safety and quality-related policies, procedures, and work instructions.
- A history of being an effective, detailed, communicative, and passionate person and are proven in your ability to create and deliver quality work.
- Experience implementing and organizing scalable systems.
- Extremely collaborative and able to communicate and provide feedback.
- Experience with SOPs, GMPs, SQF, ISO, FDA, USDA, FSIS, FSMA, PCQI, HACCP, and/or GFSI preferred.
- Must have access to reliable transportation that does not interfere with performing the essential functions of this job description.
- Able to perform the duties of the job description with or without reasonable accommodation.
- Must provide proof of identification and eligibility to work in the United States of America.
Working Conditions/Hazards
- Work is primarily performed in a laboratory, manufacturing facility, and office setting.
- Work environment is fast-paced with unique challenges faced daily.
- This position requires the ability to occasionally lift office products and supplies, up to 50 pounds.
The Better Meat Co. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, status as a protected veteran, status as an individual with a disability, or other applicable legally protected characteristics.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $90,000.00 - $110,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance
Compensation Package:
- Stock options
Schedule:
- 8 hour shift
- Day shift
Education:
- Bachelor's (Preferred)
Ability to Commute:
- West Sacramento, CA 95691 (Required)
Ability to Relocate:
- West Sacramento, CA 95691: Relocate before starting work (Preferred)
Work Location: In person