Food Product Scientist 1

The Opportunity:

The position of Product Scientist 1 is responsible for the creation and execution of new and modified products in the Research, Development & Technology department. Areas of activity within the department include rapid prototyping, new product development, line extensions, product reformulation, cost reduction, ingredient evaluation, and investigating food manufacturing processes. They will collaborate closely with marketing, sales, operations, quality assurance, purchasing, and other stakeholders to bring new products and product modifications to life.

The individual will need to be self-motivated, team oriented, results-focused, and enjoy a fast-paced environment in their pursuit of the end goal. They will be capable of bringing creative approaches to the resolution of the broad array of challenges. They must also enjoy the hands-on nature of the job that will require involvement in benchtop, pilot plant, and manufacturing site activities. A passion for food science and technology together with the ability to translate theory into practice are critical.

The opportunity is based out of Mississauga, Ontario, and will support our manufacturing facilities in the Greater Toronto Area, particularly our facility in Hamilton, Ontario.

Any MLF team member interested in being considered for this role are encouraged to apply online by April 29. Applications received beyond that date are not guaranteed consideration.

Reason for vacancy: Existing Headcount
Compensation: $58, – $87, CAD base pay annually plus annual short-term incentive

Snapshot of a Day-in-the-Life:

• Lead product development through all stages of the product lifecycle in support of new products and/or product modifications; from concept to bench-top prototype development to full-scale manufacturing. Support production start-up during the launch of a new or modified product. This includes spending long hours on the plant floor in a refrigerated environment with raw meats, and interacting with plant supervisors and machine operators Develop formulations, standard operating procedures, and the Bill of Materials to support new innovations or product modifications, ensuring sustainable execution at our manufacturing sites, accurate costing, and regulatory compliance. Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders to drive progress on projects (including marketing, sales, operations, regulatory affairs, quality assurance, industrial engineering, and others) Participate in the sensory evaluation of products. This may include internal or external panels. Protein types include pork, chicken, turkey, beef. Maintain specification documentation of raw ingredients, ingredients, formulations and final product; for the purpose of maintaining accurate records and compliance with regulations, product brief, and company standards Gather and interpret data to drive decision-making, including microbiological and chemical analyses of products, as well as data from the plant manufacturing floor Prepare and present technical reports or results, both written and oral, to peers, cross-functional stakeholders, and management with business and scientific clarity Assist with the identification and development of ideas for technology improvements and/or cost savings
• Independently manage product development projects and maintain project documentation, by: Developing workplans to execute projects efficiently, while incorporating aspects from the scientific method Managing a diverse list of projects, and prioritize tasks effectively to meet deadlines Maintaining project files to ensure accurate record keeping, and eligibility for Income Tax Credit claims Maintaining confidentiality of projects, data, and other information related to MLF business
• Stay abreast of new technology, and product knowledge. Apply learnings to achieve project objectives, and ideate new innovation/cost savings opportunities. This may include: Consulting technical resources (literature, technical papers, academia, etc.) Interfacing with supplier and academic community Conducting competitive reviews to understand the competitive offerings in-market

What You’ll Bring:

• Post-secondary education in Food Science, Nutrition, or a related science discipline.
• Minimum of 3 years’ experience in Product Development, Operations or Quality Control
• Functionally competent in Microsoft programs. Experience with SAP would be an asset.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, and the ability to collaborate cross-functionally
• Excellent analytical problem-solving skills
• Strong sense of initiative, and ability to work independently
• Ability to work with ambiguity
• Ability to work in an office environment, and on the manufacturing site production floor.
• Enjoy and thrive in a fast-paced environment

Working Location:

• This position is based out of Mississauga, Ontario.
• Frequent travel to our sites in the Greater Toronto Area, especially Hamilton, Ontario will be required.
• The individual must have a valid driver’s license and a car available.
• Schedule flexibility is required – schedule will require various start times and occasional shift work or long hours to support work at our manufacturing sites such as plant trials, first production runs, etc.

What We Offer at Maple Leaf Foods:

• Being part of a high-performance, people-focused company that has an inspiring and unique vision to become the most sustainable protein company on earth, and a deep commitment to sustainable protein across North America.
• An inclusive company culture and a work environment that keeps our people safe, rewards excellence, and empowers everyone to learn and contribute their best.
• Competitive Health and Wellness benefits that offer flexibility to meet your individual or family needs, including programs focused on improving mental health and wellbeing. These benefits start on your first day of employment.
• Defined Contribution Pension Plan with company matching that starts on your first day of employment.
• Learning and development opportunities, including workshops, ‘speaker series’ events, and resources that allow you to develop your skills and progress your career.
• Comprehensive tuition reimbursement program that supports continuous learning and development of our team members through investment in eligible degrees, diplomas, professional certification, or trades programs.
• Supporting our deep commitment to community impact, we offer up to two paid days annually to volunteer at a cause of your choice.