R&D Specification Manager - Le Mars, IA

This role, within the R&D function, is critical to the development of, and adherence to, strong processes and documentation to aid in consistent delivery of product quality in conjunction with enterprise and customer needs. Leads organization in the creation of ingredient and product specifications, including elegance guides, and in troubleshooting product design issues across all manufacturing sites in the Enterprise. Supports the R&D team with system and document management for product change controls, specification changes, product testing and the potential for product testing and prototyping support.  Uses statistical process controls and data to drive product quality improvements. Daily tasks include creating and tracking change controls, editing product specifications and drawings, supporting design and process verification for all products. Enjoyment in working in document system and across a broad team are a must for the role.

• Develops strong internal product specifications with both internal and external customers, focused on driving product quality. Develops realistic product specifications based on process capability and consistent delivery of product quality.
• Uses Continuous Improvement tools to improve process, evaluate process capability and perform and / or facilitate root cause analyses that aid in the development of robust corrective and preventative actions. Collaborates with Quality Assurance leadership to execute on action plans and recommendations on major quality and food safety concerns.
• Has a deep knowledge of products and specification within the company portfolio. Specifications and systems cover products manufactured across all locations. Recommends opportunities and avenues for process improvements. 
• Understands and applies knowledge of ingredients to write and implement ingredient specification used in ice cream and frozen dessert manufacturing processes for the completion and success of projects.
• Applies learnings, creativity and technical knowledge to add value through innovation.
• Effectively communicates project needs, status updates and technical advice to stakeholders, promoting efficient project performance. Recommends opportunities and avenues for process improvements.
• Uses objectivity on project work by practicing the scientific method of defining the question, gathering and recording information, forming a hypothesis, performing experiment, analyzing data, interpreting data and drawing conclusions.
• Delivers with guidance, R&D plans and strategies in support of company objectives.
• Collaborates cross-functionally to ensure safety, quality and legality of projects manufactured is maintained.

Qualifications:

In addition to the responsibilities listed above, other duties may be assigned by your supervisor, as dictated by business necessity.

EDUCATION - List the minimum education required to be qualified for the position, including certifications or licenses.

BS required in food/dairy science or related field.

EXPERIENCE - List experience preferred to be qualified for the position

Min 5 years in food/dairy or related.

SPECIFICATIONS - List specifications required for the job and indicate the importance and proficiency levels of each.

• Knowledge – Strong understanding of Food Science/Dairy Science, understanding of R&D business plans and strategies in addition to the companies overall business objectives
• Skills – Time management, project management, strong written and verbal communication skills, strong interpersonal savvy, prioritization
• Abilities – Ability to think strategically, ability to communicate effectively, able to manage multiple tasks within various projects; ability to be self-directed as it relates to personal development; ability to create, develop, and foster effective working relationships.

SUPERVISORY SCOPE - List the title the job will report to, and the titles and approximate or average number of direct and indirect reports for which this position will be responsible.

• Reports to – R&D Manager, Sr. Manager, or Director
• Direct Reports – None
• Indirect Reports –