Through committed service and sustainable proteins solutions, Essentia is dedicated to building a better business for our customers. We do this by holding true to our values:  Teamwork, Respect, Agility, Creativity and Knowledge.

The purpose of this role is to coordinate and conduct applications research on current and newly developed products in applications to provide technical support to sales and marketing teams.  Furthermore, the position is to support the technical education and training of internal and external customers.

JOB DUTIES:

• Coordinate Essentia Meat Lab activities, trials, and employee training.
• Ability to communicate technical information effectively to both internal and external customers. 
• Participate and support Essentia cross-functional teams requesting applications services/participation.
• Ensure proper maintenance of laboratory and equipment.
• Troubleshooting various product or application technical issues, researching for solutions and alternative options.
• Project management of application requests including definition of objectives, prioritization, tracking, coordination of resources and documentation and communication of results.
• Support sales efforts through timely completion of projects and technical service to customers.
• Maintain library of application reviews and reporting of project summaries.
• Maintain current knowledge of industry trends and technologies through trade publications and professional organizations and other affiliations.
• Work daily in the CRM system updating customer communications and activities.
• Complete all necessary documents (ie: expense reports, monthly reports) in a timely and accurate manner. 
• All other duties assigned by the Sr. Manager, Applications.

JOB REQUIREMENTS:

• Technical knowledge of the functionality of protein-based food ingredients and methods of analysis.
• Knowledge of research and development principles and the ability to develop, analyze and implement research methods and techniques.
• Ability to learn, understand and communicate product information of technical, as well as commercial nature to customers, sales team and distributors. 
• Ability to effectively communicate with management research staff, sales and marketing and other departments as well as with customers and other business contacts.
• Ability to manage and maintain confidential information including R&D projects, sales contacts, financial information and confidential or proprietary formulations. 
• Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple tasks and projects simultaneously.
• Ability to apply technical knowledge to troubleshoot difficulties encountered by customers in various applications. 
• Broad knowledge of food science and the ability to apply those technologies in the research and development of food applications.
• Knowledge and ability to effectively operate and maintain laboratory equipment used in the research and development of food applications.
• Knowledge of experimental design and statistical analysis.
• Ability to comply with work-related deadlines.
• Ability to communicate and interact in a professional manner that upholds the Essentia Values.
• Ability to travel on Essentia business in various forms of weather.
• Ability to operate all necessary office and laboratory equipment to accomplish job duties including computers and software, laboratory, and pilot plant equipment.
• Ability to work daily and extended hours as necessary.
• Ability to assist with special and ongoing projects as required by leadership.

BASIC PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

Approximate:  8-Hour Day (may be longer during peak season)

BASIC MENTAL REQUIREMENTS:

This position requires the mental and interpersonal capabilities to apply technical knowledge surrounding the functionality of protein-based products in applications. Must be able to disseminate product information and applications technology effectively to the marketplace.  Must possess excellent communications skills to be able to explain technical information to both technical and non-technical persons.

WORKING CONDITIONS AND EXPOSURES:

Working conditions vary; a portion of the job duties occur within a general office environment. Laboratory working conditions exist with exposure to acidic and alkaline substances, noise, biohazards, odor, moving machinery, and occasional use of poisonous chemicals as well as extended periods of standing. Frequently in a cold environment (40 degrees F).

JOB QUALIFICATIONS:

Education:

BS in Food Science or related field required, MS in meat science preferred.

Experience:

3 to 5 years of experience in meat science/meat processing required. Additional pet food experience preferred.