R&D Associate Packaging Scientist/Packaging Scientist/Senior Packaging Scientist- Austin, MN

Associate Packaging Scientist – Packaging Scientist – Associate Sr Packaging Scientist - Senior Packaging Scientist To save time applying, Hormel Foods does not offer sponsorship of job applicants for employment-based visas for this position at this time. ABOUT HORMEL FOODS — Hormel Foods Corporation, based in Austin, Minnesota, is a global branded food company with approximately $12 billion in annual revenue. Its brands include PLANTERS®, SKIPPY®, SPAM®, HORMEL® NATURAL CHOICE®, APPLEGATE®, WHOLLY®, HORMEL® BLACK LABEL®, COLUMBUS®, JENNIE-O® and more than 30 other beloved brands. The company is a member of the S&P 500 Index and the S&P 500 Dividend Aristocrats, was named one of the best companies to work for by U.S. News & World Report, one of America’s most responsible companies by Newsweek, recognized by TIME magazine as one of the World’s Best Companies and has received numerous other awards and accolades for its corporate responsibility and community service efforts. For more information, visit hormelfoods.com . hormelfoods.com . JOB DESCRIPTION: This packaging role organizes, plans, directs and conducts research in the area of packaging technologies that will lead to improved and new innovative and creative packaging applications in support of company goals and objectives. It provides technical advice and assistance to professional and non-professional personnel. RESPONSIBILITIES: Identifies, facilitates, devises and conducts research in the area of packaging which leads to the development and implementation of new packaging systems for the company. This involves maintaining competency in cutting edge packaging technology and broad packaging theory, and researching the feasibility of using this technology in conjunction with our products. Investigates, recommends and implements packaging cost saving programs by evaluating new enhancements made to packaging materials and/or new design considerations with the planned goal of minimizing the costs associated with our products. Fulfills the role as a technical service/troubleshooter when more broadly defined packaging problems at our facilities are beyond the scope of the plant/corporate personnel. May serve as a resource and advisor to other Packaging Scientists and personnel within the company. Develops and plans systems for improving packaging efficiencies within the corporation. This includes the entering and managing of all packaging specifications for our company’s products and may also include development of software and catalogue systems for collecting critical data regarding packaging materials and package attributes. Facilitates practical applications of packaging technology requiring direct interaction with other areas of the company such as Engineering, Operations, Marketing and Purchasing etc. Oversees the development and integration of packaging technologies with the many vendors and suppliers who work with the company. Coordinates and plans specific projects effectively, on a daily basis, with the group’s Research Technicians. QUALIFICATIONS: Level of position offered (Associate Packaging Scientist, Packaging Scientist, Associate Sr Packaging Scientist, or Senior Packaging Scientist) will be determined based on candidate’s skill set and experience. Required Bachelor’s degree in Packaging Engineering or related field Project management skills with the ability to lead and run projects smoothly. Demonstrated self-motivation, initiative, and creativity Ability to work both independently and in a team setting. An understanding of basic scientific principles. Strong analytical, time management, and record keeping skills. Excellent interpersonal skills including good team building skills. Excellent written and verbal communications skills with ability to effectively present technical concepts to a nontechnical audience Applicants must not now, or at any time in the future, require employer sponsorship for a work visa Applicants must be authorized to work in the United States for any employer Must be 18 years of age or older (all plant positions including R&D) Preferred Packaging Equipment and/or Processing experience LOCATION: Austin, Minnesota – Hormel Foods Global Headquarters BENEFITS: Compensation package includes comprehensive medical, dental and vision coverage, discretionary annual merit increases and bonuses, 401(k) with employer match, stock purchase plan, relocation assistance, paid time off, FREE two-year community/technical college tuition for children of employees, and more. The base pay range for this position $64,425 to $137,340 per year; however, actual compensation is influenced by a wide array of factors including but not limited to job-related knowledge, skills set, level of experience, and specific office location. Hormel Foods provides equal employment opportunities to applicants and employees without regard to race; color; sex; gender identity; sexual orientation; religious practices and observances; national origin; pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions; status as a protected veteran or spouse/family member of a protected veteran; or disability.