Job Description
Job DescriptionJob Title: Associate Principal ScientistJob Description
We are seeking a Subject Matter Expert (SME) in fats and oils, with a focus on their application in biscuit formulations and production processes. The ideal candidate will possess deep expertise in fat blooming, fat crystallization, and stabilization in crème-type applications. This role requires the ability to develop, execute, and drive technical projects with strong scientific rigor, and requires strong project management capabilities and a solid understanding of R&D processes, methodology, and cross-functional workflows. You will be expected to engage with internal global SMEs to leverage existing knowledge and build upon established technical learnings.
Responsibilities
- Act as a Subject Matter Expert (SME) in fats and oils, particularly in biscuit formulations.
- Develop and execute technical projects with scientific rigor.
- Manage projects effectively and influence stakeholders across R&D.
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams to enhance R&D processes.
- Engage with global SMEs to utilize and expand existing technical knowledge.
Essential Skills
- Expertise in fats and oils applications, especially in biscuit formulations.
- Experience in crème-type applications for biscuits and foods.
- Strong project management skills.
- MS or PhD in Food Science or related sciences.
- 8 years of industry experience.
Additional Skills & Qualifications
- Experience with fat blooming, crystallization, and stabilization.
Work Environment
This position operates Monday through Friday, with a flexible start time of 7:30 or 9:00 AM. You are expected to work on-site in East Hanover from Tuesday to Thursday, with the option to work from home on Mondays and Fridays. 20% travel is expected, especially in the initial 2-3 months for onboarding and technology immersion. The role involves a balanced mix of desk and bench work, designing experiments, and scaling concepts for testing in manufacturing plants. The work environment includes operating in over 150 countries with significant international brand recognition. Employees are provided with free lunch Monday through Friday.
Job Type & Location
This is a Contract position based out of East Hanover, NJ.
Pay and Benefits
The pay range for this position is $60.00 - $67.00/hr.
Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: • Medical, dental & vision • Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital • 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available • Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) • Short and long-term disability • Health Spending Account (HSA) • Transportation benefits • Employee Assistance Program • Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)
Workplace Type
This is a hybrid position in East Hanover,NJ.
Application Deadline
This position is anticipated to close on Mar 27, 2026.
Diversity, Equity & Inclusion
At Actalent, diversity and inclusion are a bridge towards the equity and success of our people. DE&I is embedded into our culture through:
- Hiring diverse talent
- Maintaining an inclusive environment through persistent self-reflection
- Building a culture of care, engagement, and recognition with clear outcomes
- Ensuring growth opportunities for our people
Actalent is an equal opportunity employer.
About Actalent
Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services. For more than 40 years, we’ve helped visionary companies advance their goals. Headquartered in the United States, our teams span 150 offices across North America, EMEA, and APAC—with four delivery centers in India led by 1,000+ extraordinary employees who connect their passion with purpose every day.
Our Bangalore, Hyderabad, Pune, and Chennai delivery centers are hubs of engineering expertise, with core capabilities in mechanical and electrical engineering, systems and software, and manufacturing engineering. Our teams deliver work across multiple industries including transportation, consumer and industrial products, and life sciences. We serve more than 4,500 clients, including many Fortune 500 brands. Learn more about how we can work together at actalentservices.com.