Sr. Scientist - Food Enzyme Applications

Overview

Kemin Food Technologies is excited to announce an opening for a highly skilled and experienced Senior Scientist with a specialization in food enzymes, particularly within bakery applications. We’re seeking a candidate with a Master’s or PhD in Food Science, Biochemistry, Biology, or a related field, and a strong background in the food industry focused on enzyme product formulation and application. This role offers the opportunity to lead innovative research projects, develop cutting-edge enzyme solutions, and collaborate with cross-functional teams to enhance our product offerings. The ideal candidate will possess both theoretical expertise and hands-on experience with enzymes in bakery settings, and won’t hesitate to roll up their sleeves in the lab to test and refine their ideas in real-world food applications. If you're passionate about driving innovation in food science and thrive in a dynamic, collaborative environment, we’d love to hear from you.

This position is required to work on-site at our Headquarters in Des Moines, Iowa. Relocation assistance may be available to candidates outside of a commutable distance

Join the Kemin Team and Transform Lives!

We are a privately held, family-owned-and-operated global biotechnology company driven by curiosity and committed to transforming the quality of life for people, pets, and the planet.

We create solutions that strengthen health and wellbeing, provide nutrition and immune support for pets and production animals, safeguard the planet’s natural resources, and protect the global food supply chain for generations to come.

We supply over 500 specialty ingredients for various industries, including human and animal health and nutrition, pet food, aquaculture, nutraceutical, food technologies, crop technologies, textiles, biofuels, and animal vaccines.

We employ 3,500 global employees and operations in 90 countries, including manufacturing facilities in Belgium, Brazil, China, Egypt, India, Italy, San Marino, Singapore, South Africa, and the United States.

As a valued member of our team, you'll enjoy a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your financial, physical, and professional well-being:

• Competitive Financial Package: Enjoy a rewarding salary, uncapped bonus opportunities, a 401k match program, and generous paid vacation and holidays.
• Health and Wellness Support: Stay fit and healthy with our fitness reimbursement for the whole family, access to an on-site fitness center, a restaurant offering seasonal fresh food options, and free fresh fruit in break areas.
• Career Development and Advancement: Unlock your potential with opportunities for growth and development throughout your entire career.
• Continued Learning Opportunities: Grow your skills with our in-house learning platforms, offering thousands of training resources both live and online, and take advantage of tuition reimbursement for external post-secondary pursuits.
• Service Opportunities: Make a positive impact with paid time off for service, partnerships with The World Food Programme and Habitat for Humanity, and local community initiatives.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage R&D projects related to enzyme product development and applications for food products.
• Develop, optimize and validate enzyme formulations for various food applications, with a focus on bakery products.
• Conduct experiments and analyze data to evaluate the performance and efficacy of enzyme products.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including marketing, production, and quality assurance, to ensure successful product development and commercialization.
• Stay updated with the latest advancements in enzyme technology and food science to drive innovation.
• Prepare technical reports, presentations, and publications to communicate research findings and project progress.
• Provide technical support and expertise to internal teams and external customers. 

Qualifications

• Education and Experience:
  • Masters Degree in Food Science, Biochemistry, Biology, or a related field with 10 years of experience in the food (particularly bakery) industry, focusing on enzyme product development and applications OR
  • PhD in Food Science, Biochemistry, Biology, or a related field with 5 years of experience in the food (particularly bakery) industry, focusing on enzyme product development and applications.
    • Education and experience at a lower level may also be considered for appointment at the Scientist or Associate Scientist level.
• Strong knowledge of enzyme chemistry, functionality, and applications in food processing.
• Knowledge of regulatory requirements for enzyme products in the food industry.
• Proficient with statistical analysis and experimental design.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills. 
• Travel 10-15%

We are an equal opportunity employer. We consider all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, creed/religion, national origin, ancestry, citizenship or immigration status (where applicable), sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy/childbirth/breastfeeding or related conditions, age (40+), disability (including the use of a service animal), genetic information, marital status, familial or caregiver status, military or veteran status, status as a victim of domestic violence, reproductive health decision‑making, and any other status protected by applicable federal, state, or local law. We also prohibit retaliation for raising concerns or participating in an EEO process. Applicants who need a reasonable accommodation to apply or interview can email TalentAcquisition.US@Kemin.com.

A post-offer background check and drug screen is required.  Additional pre-employment requirements may be necessary based on position.

Kemin is a drug-free and tobacco-free campus. 

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