Food Research Scientist – 12 Month Position in Morinville, Alberta

Description

Changing the World, One Kibble at a Time

Champion Petfoods is expanding! We are excited to announce we are looking for a Food Research Scientist to join our rapidly growing company for a 12 month basis.

Champion Petfoods is an award-winning pet food crafter with a reputation of trust spanning 35+ years. From our humble beginnings, founded in a small town in Alberta, Canada, Champion – with its ORIJEN® and ACANA® brands – is a key player in the global premium pet food industry. Our purpose, To Earn Pet Lover Trust Every Day so Pets Thrive for a Lifetime , provides the foundation for our highest aspirations as a company. Being a partner to the communities that surround us – and the environment that sustains us – are top priorities.

We would love to hear from you if you are passionate about personal and professional growth and see yourself as a key player contributing to our continued success as an award-winning company.

Here’s the scoop – Summary

The Food & Research Scientist is responsible for researching and developing novel technologies for application in Champion Petfoods’ products. This role will focus on identifying opportunities that enhance product differentiation through innovative processing technologies aligned with our food philosophy. The position is based out of our Morinville Research and Innovation (R&I) Centre and will shift over to our facility in Acheson once the team move is complete. This role will also occasionally work out of our Edmonton office and has a hybrid schedule between home and office.

What a typical day looks like

• Operate and maintain lab equipment, troubleshoot technical issues, and ensure efficient lab operations.

• Assist with experimental setup, execution, and monitoring, including tracking reaction conditions and collecting samples.

• Record and analyze experimental data to support process optimization and product improvements.

• Conduct research across benchtop, pilot, and production scales in areas such as enzyme hydrolysis, Maillard reactions, concentration, and drying.

• Prepare samples for test runs and feeding trials to assess product performance.

• Translate research findings into strategies that improve palatability, aroma, appearance, and texture of pet foods and treats.

• Stay updated on advancements in food science, flavor chemistry, and processing technologies, sharing insights within the organization.

• Conduct literature reviews to support ongoing research initiatives.

• Collaborate with scientists to implement process improvements and scale-up strategies.

What you’ll bring

• Minimum of 3 years of related experience in product development.

• Bachelor’s Degree in Food/Flavor Science, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a related field (Advanced degree is an asset).

• Strong understanding of food chemistry, including lipids, carbohydrates, proteins, and food ingredient functionalities.

• Knowledge of food processing unit operations, particularly enzyme hydrolysis and dehydration.

• Experience in research trial planning, executing experiments, statistical analysis, and report writing.

• Ability to maintain detailed and accurate project records throughout the research lifecycle.

• Familiarity with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP).

• Discretion in handling confidential or sensitive information.

• Initiative to lead projects and introduce new ideas to the organization.

• Strong self-management skills, capable of managing multiple projects and tasks concurrently.

What can you expect from Champion?

• Safety: a strong commitment to ensure all people are provided with a safe, healthy and respectful environment.

• Earnings: Competitive Wages that give financial peace of mind, RRSP with Company, and donation matching.

• Industry Competitive Benefits: Medical, Dental, Vision and Employee Assistance Programs to meet your individual or family needs.

• Continuing Education: In House & Online Learning & Development, as well as an Education Assistance Program.

• Quality: a dedication to uphold the highest standards of authenticity, nutritional integrity, and food safety, to earn the trust of Pet Lovers everywhere.

• Other Perks: Free Bag of Premium Pet Food each month, Free Parking and more!

What are you waiting for? Join the pack!

Come as you are.

We value diversity in all forms and know the power it can bring. Workplace equality allows for creative ideas to bloom, diverse points of views to be heard, and increases overall happiness. That sounds pretty good to us.

Champion is an equal opportunity employer. Regardless of your race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, age, veteran status, or any other creed, you are wanted here.

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