Research Innovation Project Specialist

Job Location: Chicago

Chicago, Illinois

About the Role:

The Ferrero Innovation Center represents a breakthrough in innovation within the world of sweet products including bakery items, cookies, and healthier snacks like energy bars and protein bars. It is a laboratory where new products are conceived, baked, and tasted, a place where novel ingredients and raw materials are meticulously studied and blended to meet high-quality standards. It is a space where a creative and scientific approach is the key to bringing innovative products to life.
The Innovation Center is in Chicago and consists of a small multicultural team, but it’s expanding! The company is linked to the Ferrero Group and our team collaborate with all the Ferrero labs and plants in the world.

Main Responsibilities:

Reporting to the Open Innovation Agri & Biotech Science Manager, you will provide research and project execution expertise along with working in the lab on prototypes for sensory and analytical evaluation and feasibility.

• Provide technical project coordination/management/execution along with technical support within the innovation domain ensuring timely delivery and adherence to Ferrero standards
• Provide research assistance including tracking food technologies through peer review journals, industry news, trade shows, etc.
• Provide lab prototypes, prepare sensory evaluations, analyze lab data, and coordination of samples and shipping
• Liaise with internal Ferrero key stakeholders and cross functional counterparts including external partners

About You:

• Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field such as food engineering, chemical engineering, bioengineering, or similar required
• A minimum of two years of experience in an innovation focused lab environment, research lab or similar setting
• Familiarity with AI tools and tools for analyzing large datasets (eg. Design of Experiment)
• Experience working in a GMP food manufacturing environment preferred
• A genuine passion for working in a creative, dynamic and innovative environment
• Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities simultaneously

Compensation Data

The base salary range for this position is $68,322 - $91,096 annually. Actual compensation will be determined based on experience, qualifications, and other job-related factors permitted by law. This range represents the anticipated salary for this position at this time. In addition to base salary, we offer a comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, retirement plans, paid time off, and other benefits.

About Ferrero:

Ferrero began its journey in the small town of Alba in Piedmont, Italy, in 1946. Today, it is one of the world’s largest sweet-packaged food companies, with many iconic brands sold in countries all over the world. Find out more about Ferrero at ferrero.com.

DE&I at Ferrero:

Ferrero is committed to building a diverse and inclusive culture in which all employees feel welcomed and appreciated and have the same opportunities. We believe all our people are equally talented in their own way. In nurturing the curiosity and natural abilities of our employees, we provide them, generation after generation, the means to succeed personally and professionally, enabling them to craft their journey at Ferrero. The diversity of our talents is what makes our work environment multicultural, innovative, and highly rewarding.
Find out more here.

Ferrero N.A. provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability or genetics.

We’re constantly looking for talented individuals who are ready to be part of our dynamic and growing organization. Ferrero is a company with a global presence and family values. Join us!