Scientist II, Food Science

• Jun 2021 - Present

Product Developer

• Sep 2020 - May 2021

As a product developer for a chef-driven development agency, I translated numerous culinary-inspired formulas into scalable prototypes. I served as the technical expert for shelf-stable sauces and dressings, leading the rapid prototyping of 6 SKUs of premium pasta sauces and 5 SKUs of marinades. Known for bringing products quickly to market, I facilitated participant-centric innovation sessions to obtain directional feedback to fast-track client deliverables. As a product developer for a chef-driven development agency, I translated numerous culinary-inspired formulas into scalable prototypes. I served as the technical expert for shelf-stable sauces and dressings, leading the rapid prototyping of 6 SKUs of premium pasta sauces and 5 SKUs of marinades. Known for bringing products quickly to market, I facilitated participant-centric innovation sessions to obtain directional feedback to fast-track client deliverables.

Food Scientist

• Mar 2018 - Aug 2020

I confidently commercialized over 17 products that have expanded foodservice sales. Responsible for all phases of product development, spearheading technical challenges that include gold standard creation, shelf life, cost, ingredient functionality, and nutritional guardrails. I experimented with shelf-life extenders, alternative cost-effective and clean-label hydrocolloid systems, egg replacements, fibers to improve texture, starches for additional heat and process tolerances, and sodium reducers to meet strict nutritional guidelines. As a versatile problem solver, I presented the best possible solution to meet or exceed expectations for customers. Show less

Food Scientist - Regulatory Specialist

• Jul 2016 - Mar 2018

I was recruited to Kagome to perform a duo role that combined product development experience with supplemental knowledge of import/export regulations. I quickly launched 4 innovative products for national and global foodservice clients. I created, issued, and updated product documentation including specifications, nutritional, allergen, GMO, Halal, Kosher, and customer technical forms to support two production facilities. I was able to provide regulatory guidance to the food scientists’ to help ensure compliance with domestic and international regulations throughout the product development process. Show less

R&D Specialist

• Feb 2013 - Jul 2016

I launched over 10 products for national and global foodservice and retail clients in the sauces, dressings, and dry mixes category. I held primary responsibility to issue technical documentation for internal and external customers. One of my proudest achievements was becoming a leader and motivator for a team of 3 to implement and maintain SQF Level 2 Certification. I launched over 10 products for national and global foodservice and retail clients in the sauces, dressings, and dry mixes category. I held primary responsibility to issue technical documentation for internal and external customers. One of my proudest achievements was becoming a leader and motivator for a team of 3 to implement and maintain SQF Level 2 Certification.

Food Technologist

• Jan 2012 - Jul 2012

I hit the ground running and launched an LTO frozen blended milkshake in less than 4 months, gaining experience at coordinating and leading trial runs at co-packers. I tested freeze-thaw properties of current products to validate shelf-life, quality and stability. I hit the ground running and launched an LTO frozen blended milkshake in less than 4 months, gaining experience at coordinating and leading trial runs at co-packers. I tested freeze-thaw properties of current products to validate shelf-life, quality and stability.

Chemistry Lab Technician I

• Sep 2011 - Jan 2012

I played a central role in the Chemistry Department screening for pesticide residues in fruit and vegetable purées in accordance to ISO 17025 standards. I played a central role in the Chemistry Department screening for pesticide residues in fruit and vegetable purées in accordance to ISO 17025 standards.

Research and Development Intern

• May 2010 - Dec 2010

I gained a thorough understanding of the product development process by supporting the Fruit R&D Department with prototype development and product optimization. I provided additional support to the Food Technologists by supervising plant trials utilizing a retort sterilization process of fruit based products, validating shelf-life of product at different temperature environments, and participating in daily product cuttings to evaluate and detect for any loss in product quality. My project focus was developing a screening program that established an online searchable library for all incoming flavors to increase efficiency and fast track new product development. Show less