Packaging Testing Senior Scientist H/F/X

<p><b>Job Description:</b></p><p><b>Segment </b>: Mars Global Services</p><p><b>Contract </b>: Permanent/CDI</p><p><b>Localisation </b>: Aimargues, Veghel</p><p></p><p>As a<span> </span><b>Packaging Testing Senior Scientist</b>, you’ll play a critical role in making sure our packaging materials are safe, high-quality, and fully compliant with global regulations. You’ll lead the development and validation of cutting-edge testing methods — working with both internal labs and trusted external partners — to ensure we deliver products that meet the highest standards of safety and performance.</p><p></p><p><b>What are we looking for?</b></p><ul><li><p>A Master’s or PhD in Analytical Chemistry, Material Science, Packaging Science, or a related field</p></li><li><p>At least 7 years of hands-on experience in packaging testing, ideally in the food, cosmetics, or consumer goods industry</p></li><li><p>Deep understanding of packaging materials — from plastics and recycled content to adhesives, inks, and paper</p></li><li><p><span><span>Experience in Food Contact Materials (FCM), Chemical Migration testing, and NIAS screening (from method development to data interpretation)</span> </span></p></li><li><p>Strong technical skills in laboratory testing methods such as GC, HPLC, MS, ICP, SPE, and more</p></li><li><p>Solid knowledge of food contact regulations (EU 10/2011, FDA CFR 21), and ideally ISO 17025 lab requirements</p></li><li><p>Experience working with or managing global lab networks, including method transfer and troubleshooting</p></li><li><p>Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills, with the ability to translate complex science into clear actions</p></li><li><p>Fluent English (spoken and written)</p></li></ul><p></p><p><b>What would be your key <span>responsibilities? </span></b></p><p><b>Lead Packaging Testing Capabilities</b></p><ul><li><p>Design and validate testing methods to assess packaging safety, compliance, and performance</p></li><li><p>Monitor emerging risks and new testing trends (e.g., PFAS, microplastics, NIAS, etc.)</p></li><li><p>Ensure our methods meet business and regulatory needs worldwide</p></li></ul><p><b>Build &amp; Manage External Lab Partnerships</b></p><ul><li><p>Identify and qualify third-party labs to support global packaging testing</p></li><li><p>Create strong technical collaborations across chemistry, toxicology, and regulatory science</p></li><li><p>Support labs with expert guidance, method troubleshooting, and continuous improvement</p></li></ul><p><b>Ensure Quality, Compliance, and Operational Excellence</b></p><ul><li><p>Deliver high-quality technical documentation (SOPs, protocols, QC plans)</p></li><li><p>Drive consistency and accuracy across internal and external lab networks</p></li><li><p>Act as a technical owner for packaging methods within our global governance system</p></li></ul><p><b>Drive Innovation and Lab Capability Building</b></p><ul><li><p>Recommend new testing technologies and equipment based on business needs</p></li><li><p>Contribute to investment decisions and help shape the future of Mars’ testing infrastructure</p></li><li><p>Support global lab teams with training, method development, and operational excellence initiatives</p></li></ul><p></p><p><b>What can you expect from Mars?</b></p><ul><li><p><span><span>Join our </span></span><b><span>Center of Expertise</span></b><span><span>, based in the beautiful </span></span><b><span>South of France</span></b><span><span> (Montpellier/</span><span>Nîmes</span><span> area), on the </span></span><b><span>Royal Canin Headquarters campus</span></b><span><span> ; a dynamic, international hub for innovation in pet nutrition and science. This unique campus brings together over </span></span><b><span>800 associates from 40+ nationalities</span></b><span><span>, two laboratories, a kennel and cattery home to more than </span></span><b><span>400 pets</span></b><span><span>, and Royal Canin’s most iconic factory.</span> </span></p></li><li><p>As part of <b>Mars Inc.</b>, you belong to a global, family-owned business made up of <b>multiple segments</b> – including <b>Petcare</b>, <b>Snacking</b>, <b>Food &amp; Nutrition.</b> This <b>cross-segment ecosystem</b> offers diverse career paths and rich collaboration opportunities.</p></li></ul><p></p><p></p>