R&D QA Scientist - Valhalla, New York

As an L07 R&D Scientist, the role encompasses a diverse array of responsibilities, leveraging expertise in microbiology and foundational knowledge to inform decision-making and progress towards becoming a Subject Matter Expert. Duties include benchtop testing in support of challenge studies and compliance programs, actively contributing to experimental design and data interpretation. Further, within the capacity of an L07 R&D Scientist, the incumbent will enhance their skill set by providing technical guidance supporting product development innovation. This position requires benchtop support for the preparation and analysis of R&D consumer test samples, spanning beverages, foods, and ingredients, as well as assisting in the validation of laboratory and pilot scale equipment. 

This role will also have Data Steward responsibilities which will include Microbiological Method Change Requests and Digitized Master Reference List maintenance.  Other Data Steward responsibilities will include oversight of Controlled Document review according to update schedule.

• Conducts (or coordinates) Microbiological Testing of challenge studies and method validation studies
• Ensures routine R&D samples are tested within window of acceptable turn-around-time
• Provides Data Steward oversight of Micro Methods Change Requests, Master Reference List updates and Controlled Documentation upkeep.
• Assists with equipment validation of laboratory or pilot scale equipment
• Microbiological support for product innovation and specifications
• Review/revise applicable microbiological test methods, procedures and sampling plans as needed
• Preparation and maintenance of high-quality microbiological media and reagents
• Maintenance of the R&D Microbiology culture collection
• Collaborate with global functional teams to drive Winning with Purpose and our Faster, Stronger, Better agendas related to food safety and quality/ Pathogen Environmental Monitoring /PepsiCo approved Laboratories/Methods Governance

Compensation & Benefits:

• The expected compensation range for this position is between $72,900 - $122,100 based on a full-time schedule.
  
• Location, confirmed job-related skills and experience will be considered in setting actual starting salary.
  
• Bonus based on performance and eligibility; target payout is 5% of annual salary paid out annually.
  
• 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
  

• BS/MS in Food Science, Biology, Microbiology or other related technical field
• Minimum 5 years of Microbiology/Food Safety in Operations, Quality or R&D
• This individual must have hands-on laboratory skills required to provide effective/ efficient support and to work safely
• This individual must have basic project management skills. Previous experience in documentation creation and upkeep is desired.
• Developing SME in Microbiology, Food Safety, Pathogen Environmental Monitoring, Microbiological Test Methods, Ingredient Specifications, Finished Product Testing
• Drive agendas to meet business timelines; successfully handle adverse circumstances.
• Achieve quality results consistently despite obstacles. Monitors progress against goals, identifies issues and takes corrective action early
• Contributes to building an inclusive environment and positive work culture within the R&D Microbiology team
• Must demonstrate consistent and reliable communication with various stakeholder groups, internal and external to PepsiCo.
• Self-starter able to work independently and within cross functional teams.
• Takes initiative to introduce fresh concepts to the team or organization, fostering innovation to enhance the work environment, optimize laboratory workflows, and strengthen safety measures

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to 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.

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.

Please view our Pay Transparency Statement