Cheese R&D Specialist I

Summary Description:

The Cheese R&D Specialist assists the Cheese R&D team in the execution of projects that are designed to help our business grow and deliver on company objectives. The Technician performs duties that include sample preparation for evaluation and/or shipping to a customer.   They may assist in many functions associated with projects including but not limited to sourcing and preparation of ingredients for trials in our lab and pilot plant, bench-top level experiments, receiving and organizing samples from our factories or vendors, and cleaning of work areas.  No employees report to this position. The cheese R&D Specialist I must be able to communicate effectively in relaying information to team members and internal customers as applicable.

Job Duties (Accountability Categories and Essential Functions/Key Responsibilities):

NOTE:  The job may include other “non-essential” responsibilities and duties that are not listed on this form.

#

Accountability Category

Essential Functions/Key Responsibilities

% of Time

1

Project Support

• Organize, execute, and document daily work associated with projects.  This includes:
  • Proper receiving and storage of samples
  • Scheduling evaluations
  • Sample shipping
  • Sample preparation
  • Preparation of Ingredients

50

2

Organization & Sanitation

• Organize, clean, and maintain an orderly work place by cleaning up after themselves and participating in scheduled departmental cleaning events.

30

3

Execution of Tasks

Execute special duties as assigned (i.e. product showings, quarterly cleaning, kitchen work etc.)

20

Minimum Qualifications & Experience:

• High School diploma.  
• At least 3 years of relevant experience.
• Experience using Microsoft Office Applications.

Preferred Qualifications & Experience:

• Additional schooling is a bonus
• experience in the food industry

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities/Competencies:

• Knowledge and understanding of food preparation and ingredient applications
• Ability to safely operate and troubleshoot kitchen and select pilot plant equipment (i.e. ovens, shredders, mixers, etc.)
• Ability to provide current, direct, and actionable feedback to others, and act upon feedback
• Ability to balance multiple priorities, and a sense of urgency for problem solving and continuous improvement
• Strong verbal and written communication skills; inherently articulate, with effective interaction with persons at all levels.
• Basic interpersonal skills, problem-solving, project management, change management and analytical skills
• Ability to safely operate pilot plant shredding equipment

• Ability to lift and carry up to 50 lbs. for a short distance Ability to work on their feet for extended periods of time.

Problem Solving:

Uses existing methodologies to solve standard problems and demonstrates the ability to find creative solutions.

Impact:

Assists in the successful completion of projects in a timely manner consistent with the objectives of the work. Work is performed in a consistent, accurate manner that often drives business decisions.

Interpersonal Skills:   

Proactively communicates information, seeks knowledge, and offers solutions.

Critical Attributes and Representative Responsibilities:

• Anticipates required steps to achieve the stated objective.
• Routinely access internal and external databases for product / project needs.  
• Proactively communicates observations and challenges to the manager in a timely and effective manner with suggested actions.
• Ability to safely lift up to 50 lbs. and carry extended distances and tolerate cooler and freezer temperatures.
• Ability to safely operate and troubleshoot kitchen and select pilot plant equipment (i.e. ovens, shredders, mixers, etc.).
• Is responsible for daily and weekly cleaning responsibilities with a “5S” mind set.