Food Scientist (3 Month Contract)

Our client is a well established food manufacturer in Langley, BC. They are looking for a Food Scientist to join them on a 3 month contract with a possibility of extension.

Role and Responsibilities:

• Innovation Pipeline: Lead ideation and execution of new product initiatives aligned with company strategy, market trends, and customer insights.
• Freeze-Dry Expertise: Oversee trials and optimization of freeze-drying processes for raw and the occasional cooked ingredients, managing moisture targets, product integrity, and nutrient retention.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Work with procurement, quality, operations, and sales & marketing teams to ensure product feasibility, cost targets, manufacturability, and brand alignment.
• Regulatory & Nutritional Compliance: Ensure all formulations meet or exceed AAFCO, FDA (if applicable), and other applicable regulations and nutritional standards.
• Technical Documentation & Shelf-Life Studies: Oversee the creation and maintenance of comprehensive technical documentation, including ingredient specifications, product spec sheets, and formulation records. Design and lead shelf life and stability studies to validate product integrity, safety, and nutritional performance over time, ensuring data-driven decisions for expiration dating and packaging requirements.
• Supplier & Ingredient Vetting: Evaluate new ingredients and suppliers for functional, nutritional, and safety performance; develop sourcing specifications. 5%
• Team Development: Build and mentor a high-performing pet food committee within the R&D team, promoting scientific rigor and a culture of innovation.

Qualifications:

• Master's or Bachelor's in Food Science, Animal Nutrition, Meat Science, or related field.
• 2+ years of experience in pet food or food manufacturing; 1+ years in freeze-dried or low-moisture foods preferred.
• In-depth knowledge of pet nutrition (dog and cat), ingredient functionality, and AAFCO/FDA/USDA regulatory guidelines.
• Proven experience managing R&D groups and projects.
• Strong understanding of freeze-drying equipment, HACCP, and food safety principles.
• Excellent project management, communication, and cross-functional collaboration skills.
• Passion for animal health and wellness through science-based nutrition.

Raymond Ip

Modern Technical Staffing

ext. 307