What are the responsibilities and job description for the Technology Specialist position at Hoogwegt?
In the sector of high-quality food ingredients, technical expertise is the foundation of every successful partnership. As we continue to expand our footprint in the U.S. market, the Technology Specialist plays a vital role in ensuring our products meet the exacting standards our customers expect. At Hoogwegt, this is a unique position where your technical insights directly impact our growth and operational excellence in North America.
This is a role for a technical professional who thrives on combining scientific knowledge with operational execution. Focused on our Ingredients business unit, you will act as the technical anchor for the office, serving as the primary link between our local commercial teams and our global headquarters in the Netherlands. From calculating recipes and approving raw materials to visiting production locations, you oversee the technical lifecycle of our specialty products.
Your impact
Your work involves a dynamic blend of technical decision-making and operational support. You will act as the primary technical contact for our production locations, ensuring that every batch meets the highest standards of safety and quality. You serve as a technical partner to our commercial colleagues, providing the data and insights needed to navigate a fast-moving market.
Key responsibilities include:
- Serving as the primary technical contact for production locations and providing expert support to the commercial team on purchasing and sales matters.
- Maintaining the internal quality management system (SQF/IFS) and ensuring all processes meet FDA requirements.
- Calculating recipes, translating them into production plans, and managing product specifications and raw material releases.
- Investigating and resolving quality complaints independently and coordinating recalls if they should ever be necessary.
- Ensuring the integrity and presentation of official samples sent from the office, including the physical preparation and sealing of products.
- Monitoring relevant legislation and ensuring proper implementation across the supply chain.
Who are you?
We are looking for a technical professional who values detail and accuracy but also enjoys the variety of visiting production sites and being physically involved in the quality process. You are a self-starter who can hold complex data in your head while making clear, decisive recommendations in a fast-paced environment.
Job Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree in Food Technology or a related science field.
- 5-10 years of experience in the food industry, specifically with powder technology. Experience in dairy ingredients is a significant plus.
- Proven experience with FDA and GFSI requirements (SQF/IFS) is essential.
- Strong verbal and written communication skills with the ability to act as a technical advisor to non-technical stakeholders.
- Ability to work independently within a global, matrixed organization while maintaining a "hands-on" approach to operational tasks.
- Willingness to travel to production sites and industry events as needed.
About Hoogwegt
As the largest privately owned trading company in dairy, plant-based products, and food ingredients, Hoogwegt is a true pioneer in the industry. With a global network, more than 60 years of experience, and a dedicated team of 475 employees, we generate annual revenue of approximately €4 billion.
Our Dairy Ingredients Business Unit specializes in the development, production, and trade of milk proteins and dairy ingredients and our Business Unit Dairy Essentials America’s specializes in dairy commodity trade of for example butter and NFDM. Both share a combined office in Lake Forrest from where we realize strong growth in both units.
At Hoogwegt, we believe your career should be as dynamic as the market you work in. That's why we offer:
• An open and informal company culture
• The flexibility to shape your role and work style
• Opportunities for professional growth and development
• Role-specific training and education
• A collaborative environment with experienced and supportive colleagues
Are you ready to take a key technical role with a global market leader? We look forward to receiving your CV and motivation letter.