Research and Development Operations and Measurement Sciences Junior Scientist - Measurement Sciences (Analytical & QA Sciences)

Overview

Job Description: This position is located at our Plano Global R&D facility and is part of the Measurement Sciences (Analytical & QA Sciences) team. The scientist will perform analysis of biopolymer-associated compounds, including dietary fiber, starch/sugars, protein, and related components, in support of PepsiCo R&D and operations groups.

This role is highly hands-on and execution-focused, requiring the ability to manage labor-intensive sample preparation and high-throughput analytical workflows with accuracy, consistency, and efficiency.

The primary responsibility is to accurately determine the content of dietary fiber and starch/sugars for targeted analytes using established sample preparation processes, standardized methods, routine equipment operation, data collection, and interpretation. Additional responsibilities include troubleshooting instruments, recording and reporting data to both management and the laboratory information management system (LIMS).

Responsibilities

Responsibilities:

• Perform high-volume, labor-intensive fiber analysis with instrumentation (full capacity of the instruments). Independently manage two parallel fiber analysis runs per day across two instruments
• Prepare and maintain chemicals, solutions, and equipment as needed for the performance of analyses.
• Follow standard operating procedures to determine dietary fiber contents as well as protein, ash, fat and moisture.
• Manage communications with third-party labs, including coordinating testing activities, sample preparation, and shipment of samples
• Design, develop, troubleshoot, and validate analytical methods following AOAC-approved methodologies and industry best practices
• Document all testing data in appropriate online system/programs and communicate results in an accurate and timely manner.
• Organize and purge samples on a regular basis.
• Follow Good Lab Practices (GLP) and established processes to secure laboratory safety, instrument performance as well as data quality.
• Assist managers in the smooth running of the lab (i.e. lab safety audit).

Percent Travel: None 

Compensation and Benefits:

• The expected compensation range for this position is between $54,700 - $82,050.
• Location, confirmed job-related skills, experience, and education will be considered in setting actual starting salary. Your recruiter can share more about the specific salary range during the hiring process.
• Paid time off subject to eligibility, including paid parental leave, vacation, sick, and bereavement.
• In addition to salary, PepsiCo offers a comprehensive benefits package to support our employees and their families, subject to elections and eligibility: Medical, Dental, Vision, Disability, Health, and Dependent Care Reimbursement Accounts, Employee Assistance Program (EAP), Insurance (Accident, Group Legal, Life), Defined Contribution Retirement Plan.

Qualifications

Required Skills and Qualifications: 

• Bachelor’s degree in chemistry, analytical chemistry, food science, material science, or related discipline with 2+ years’ experience in a laboratory environment.
• LC operation experience is preferred. 
• Basic understanding of food nutrients such as fiber, protein and oil.
• Detail-oriented and results-driven, with strong attention to accuracy and the ability to prioritize tasks to deliver accurate results within required timelines.
• Strong communication skills (verbal and written) and familiarity with Microsoft 365 such as Microsoft Excel and Words.
• Ability to learn new techniques and adapt to new ways of working, especially digital platforms (i.e. LabVantage). 
• Experience with Good Lab Practices and excellent understanding of hazardous chemicals to secure laboratory safety.
• Strong organizational skills, with an ability to keep neat, orderly, and complete records.

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Our Company will consider for employment qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with the requirements of the Fair Credit Reporting Act, and all other applicable laws, including but not limited to, San Francisco Police Code Sections 4901-4919, commonly referred to as the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance; and Chapter XVII, Article 9 of the Los Angeles Municipal Code, commonly referred to as the Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance.   

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, or disability status.   

PepsiCo is an Equal Opportunity Employer: Female / Minority / Disability / Protected Veteran / Sexual Orientation / Gender Identity / Age   

If you'd like more information about your EEO rights as an applicant under the law, please download the available EEO is the Law & EEO is the Law Supplement documents. View PepsiCo EEO Policy.   

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