Job Description

***Position can be located in either Dallas, or Houston***

Purpose of Position

We are seeking a Food Science Analyst to join our New Product Development (NPD) team . This role will support the formulation, testing, and commercialization of innovative food and fresh-cut fruit products. The ideal candidate has a strong background in food science, product development, and quality assurance. They will work cross-functionally with QA, production, procurement, marketing, and food safety teams to ensure new products meet consumer expectations, quality standards, and regulatory requirements.

Accountabilities:

• NPD product formulation, including iterative testing in a food-safe environment to optimize ingredients for sensorial and shelf-life objectives.
• Conduct sensory and shelf-life testing to assess product quality, flavor retention, and microbial stability.
• Research and analyze in-market products, performing reverse-engineering of competitor formulations to identify innovation opportunities.
• Ensure NPD processing and operational efficiencies, collaborating with production teams to streamline scale-up processes.
• Prepare prototypes and mock-up samples for internal evaluations, consumer testing, and sales presentations.
• Conduct analytical testing (e.g., pH, Brix, organoleptic) to assess product performance and ensure food quality and safety.
• Research and test new ingredients, processing techniques, and preservation methods to enhance product quality and extend shelf life.
• Work with suppliers and vendors to source high-quality raw materials for product development.
• Maintain a food and ingredient inventory for NPD purposes, ensuring materials are available for ongoing trials.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure new products align with food safety regulations, labeling requirements, and industry standards.
• Support sensory evaluation panels and consumer testing to optimize product flavor, texture, and appearance.
• Document testing results, prepare reports, and present findings to internal stakeholders
• Proactively brings thoughtful product recommendations to cross-functional teams that drive brand and business results.
• Ability to substantiate recommendations with research, reasoning, and data.
• Ability to work closely with suppliers in developing and improving their processes to achieve commercial viability of products.
• Fosters an innovative, curiosity-inspired, food-forward mindset in the organization.

Minimum Skills Required:

• 1-3 years of work experience in food/beverage product/process development, quality assurance, or R&D. (fresh produce experience a plus)
• Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Food Technology, Microbiology, or a related field.
• Strong Knowledge of food processing, ingredient functionality, and packaging technologies.
• Strong analytical skills with experience in food testing methodologies (e.g., microbiological, chemical, and physical testing).
• Familiarity with food science equipment required
• Experience with consumer insights, culinary innovation, and nutrition.
• Familiarity with HACCP, GMPs, FDA, USDA, and other food safety regulations.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment, manage multiple projects, and meet deadlines.
• Excellent problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and teamwork capabilities.

***Please note: This position does not qualify for relocation expenses. ***

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DEL MONTE FRESH PRODUCE IS AN EEO/AA/V/H

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