R&D Technologist - Dairy & Fats

About the Role

Tirlán, a leading global food and nutrition cooperative with a vast portfolio that includes prominent brands such as Avonmore and Kilmeaden Cheese, is seeking an R&D Technologist for its Dairy and Fats division based in Dublin. The successful candidate will report to the R&D Manager of Dairy Fats and will be responsible for managing and delivering customer-focused innovation projects. This role requires expertise in dairy or plant ingredient technologies, ideally equipped with new product development experience and strong technical laboratory skills.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee and execute collaborative customer projects with support from various R&D teams.
• Function as part of a multidisciplinary team involving customers and various Tirlán departments to ensure projects meet deadlines and objectives.
• Develop and present product concepts and innovative ideas effectively.
• Formulate products accurately with attention to detail.
• Design, perform, and document benchtop and pilot-scale experiments to test product formulations or manufacturing processes while adhering to R&D protocols.
• Develop and adapt testing methods as needed.
• Regularly report and review project progress with the R&D Manager and Customer Project Manager.
• Stay informed about the latest advancements in the dairy and fats sector.
• Promote and uphold health and safety standards within the team.
• Travel when necessary to other Tirlán facilities, external services, meetings, or conferences.

Candidate Profile and Requirements

• A science-related qualification at BSc level or equivalent in Food Science/Nutrition, Food Technology, or Food Engineering.
• Firm knowledge of Food Processing and Food Chemistry.
• Minimum of three years of relevant technical experience in dairy or food sectors, preferably with exposure to customer interactions.
• Genuine enthusiasm for food, ingredients, and new product development.
• High attention to detail paired with strong report writing and project review abilities.
• Excellent project management skills and talent for planning and delivering projects effectively.
• Ability to collaborate across different functional teams.
• Strong communication and interpersonal influence skills suitable for all organizational levels.
• Competence in problem-solving and managing uncertain conditions.
• Self-motivated, proactive, and customer-oriented mindset.
• Ability to perform well under pressure and meet stringent deadlines.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, particularly Excel and Word.

Company Culture and Benefits

• Flexible Fridays allowing for an improved work-life balance.
• Complimentary parking facilities.
• Supportive, collaborative work environment encouraging team synergy.

Additional Information

Tirlán is committed to fostering diversity and inclusion by welcoming candidates from all backgrounds regardless of race, religion, gender identity, or other personal attributes. The company promotes a values-based work culture and operates a hybrid work model with its vibrant headquarters located in Kilkenny City serving as a hub for innovation and collaboration.