Food Scientist & Regulatory Affairs Lead

Under the direction of the VP of Business Development, the Food Science & Regulatory Affairs Lead supports the department’s customer-focused product development initiatives and regulatory approval efforts for new markets. With a strong background in protein product development and knowledge in both meat and plant-based meat science, this individual will drive food applications R&D in collaboration with our customers and lead relevant novel food regulatory submissions. Experience with mycoprotein is highly valued but not required. This role may oversee a food scientist and will engage directly with customers and regulatory agencies worldwide.

Responsibilities include: 

• Design, execute, and record experimental plans and direct bench-scale product development.
• Improve existing food products, applications, including identifying, testing, and sourcing new ingredients and processes.
• Work closely with Business Development to develop collaborative, trusting relationships with customers, especially their R&D teams, and support new product development incorporating BMC ingredients 
• Direct processes in the lab and with external labs to conduct analytical testing as needed for QA/QC.
• Lead nutritional testing, labeling, and reporting efforts for all products in collaboration with the QA and Research teams.
• Work with the Technology Department to characterize the functionality, characteristics, and quality of mycelium-based ingredients.
• Design, execute, and analyze internal and public-facing sensory analysis. Assist with the implementation and maintenance of all food safety programs. 
• Ensure compliance with regulatory and food safety GMPs.
• Maintain detailed lab records and data. Generate quality experimental reports.
• Oversee regulatory activities, including third-party certifications, and ensure compliance throughout all BMC facilities.
• Lead and promote global food regulatory submissions (e.g., to FDA, EFSA), collect information, and respond to agency inquiries as needed.
• Develop and manage submissions for regulatory filings, such as food safety assessments, product testing, labeling, and certifications.
• Investigate and monitor novel food regulations in potential sales regions, and initiate activities as appropriate.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with regulatory bodies, industry groups, and certification agencies.
• Provide support and advice for grant proposal efforts from government departments, companies, institutions, foundations, trusts, and individuals.
• Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor of Science degree in food science, food engineering, culinary science, or a similar degree.
• 2-5 years working in the food industry, preferably with experience in meat and plant protein product development. 
• In-depth knowledge of meat and meat-analogue products, preferably including mycoprotein.
• Occasional after-hours and weekend availability.
• In-depth knowledge of food processing.
• Advanced knowledge of Microsoft Office, Google products (e.g., Docs and Sheets) and software applications commonly used in the food industry.
• Advanced technical writing skills with experience writing food safety and quality-related policies, procedures, and work instructions.
• A history of being an effective, detailed, communicative, and passionate person and are proven in your ability to create and deliver quality work. 
• Experience implementing and organizing scalable systems.
• Extremely collaborative and able to communicate and provide feedback.
• Experience with SOPs, GMPs, SQF, ISO, FDA, USDA, FSIS, FSMA, PCQI, HACCP, and/or GFSI preferred.
• Must have access to reliable transportation that does not interfere with performing the essential functions of this job description.
• Able to perform the duties of the job description with or without reasonable accommodation.
• Must provide proof of identification and eligibility to work in the United States of America.

Working Conditions/Hazards

• Work is primarily performed in a laboratory, manufacturing facility, and office setting.
• Work environment is fast-paced with unique challenges faced daily.
• This position requires the ability to occasionally lift office products and supplies, up to 50 pounds.

The Better Meat Co. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, status as a protected veteran, status as an individual with a disability, or other applicable legally protected characteristics.