R&D Ops & Meas Sci Associate Scientist

Overview

The R&D Associate Scientist will have unique opportunities to increase technical knowledge by using multiple analytical techniques and physical characterization tools to investigate quality-related issues. The team provides analytical solutions and insight to protect company brands. The various cases resolved by the team include out-of-compliance ingredients and products from the field, prototype samples from product development, as well as samples received through Consumer Experience (CE) Department. The knowledge generated will have direct impact on a diverse portfolio of beverage categories. Additional responsibilities include being trained to administrate the Global Forensics LIMS database.

Responsibilities

• Perform analytical testing and sensory evaluation on ingredients, semi-finished ingredients, prototype sample, and finished goods that had out-of-compliance issue during development, manufacturing or in the field.
• Utilize scientific methods (chemistry, physical characterization) and advanced instrumentation (Microscope, FT-IR, SEM) to develop knowledge for issue resolution as part of the cross-functional team.
• Independently perform Image analysis, material identification and conduct data interpretation to assist root cause analysis of Forensics investigations.
• Provide guidance to CE and SCQC representative for sample retrieval or providing update to counterparts during issue resolution such as a Scientist in Technical Brand Stewardship (TBS) or a manager in Consumer Experience (CE).
• Interact with Sr. Scientists and communicate Forensics results, assist Department Director (LG1) and lab manager on key Forensics metrics as needed.
• Contribute to design and execution of experiments, analysis and interpretation of various types of data (quantitative/qualitative) using statistical tools to make sound technical evaluation on product and process issues.
• Participate as an active member of cross-functional issue resolution teams comprised of individuals from a variety of disciplines, including Quality, Product Development, Consumer Relations, Packaging, Engineering and other groups.
• Leverage internal experts and approved external laboratory for analytical testing needed for critical Forensics cases.
• Maintain to administrate the Global Forensics LIMS system.

Compensation and Benefits:

• The expected compensation range for this position is between $73,600 - $123,150.
• Location, confirmed job-related skills, experience, and education will be considered in setting actual starting salary. Your recruiter can share more about the specific salary range during the hiring process.
• Paid time off subject to eligibility, including paid parental leave, vacation, sick, and bereavement.
• In addition to salary, PepsiCo offers a comprehensive benefits package to support our employees and their families, subject to elections and eligibility: Medical, Dental, Vision, Disability, Health, and Dependent Care Reimbursement Accounts, Employee Assistance Program (EAP), Insurance (Accident, Group Legal, Life), Defined Contribution Retirement Plan.

Qualifications

• The successful candidate will be experienced in the consumer goods industry and demonstrate the following skills:
• Good understanding of beverage formulas and concentrate composition to be able to determine accurate target when testing suspect samples and investigate out-of-spec results;
• Hands-on experience in performing Analytical analysis using Microscopes and other fundamental physical characterization technology such as Rhelology and IR material identification; experience interpreting IR spectrum and drawing scientifically meaningful conclusions.
• Ability to design experiments for small-scale research projects.  Execute experiments independently. Collect quality data and conduct base data analysis using statistical tools.
• Ability to prioritize workloads and manage competing priorities from both lab testing needs and client’s requests;
• Strong Problem Solving/Critical thinking skills to identify solutions to technical challenges.
• Good communication skills (verbal and written).
• B.S. or M.S. in Chemistry related discipline with about 2-4 years of experience in a consumer products company.

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Our Company will consider for employment qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with the requirements of the Fair Credit Reporting Act, and all other applicable laws, including but not limited to, San Francisco Police Code Sections 4901-4919, commonly referred to as the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance; and Chapter XVII, Article 9 of the Los Angeles Municipal Code, commonly referred to as the Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance. 

All qualified applica