Store Support

Advanced Food Processing & Innovation Manager

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Job Description

Job Summary:

Whole Foods Market is seeking a dynamic and experienced Advanced Food Processing & Innovation Manager to lead and optimize our multi-unit fresh food manufacturing program. This critical role ensures the highest standards of food quality, safety and innovation across a range of advanced processing techniques, including sous-vide cooking, various pasteurization methods (HPP, HTST, retort, etc.), Hot-Fill, Modified Atmosphere Packaging (MAP), and the exploration of emerging food production technologies. The ideal candidate will be a subject matter expert, responsible for developing, implementing, and maintaining best practices across multiple manufacturing facilities, driving efficiency, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement and innovation.

This role is located in Austin, TX with an expectation of being in the store support office 5 days per week.

Responsibilities:

  • Sous-Vide and Pasteurization Expertise:
    • Develop, standardize, and optimize sous-vide and pasteurization processes across all manufacturing units.
    • Ensure compliance with all food safety regulations and quality standards (HACCP, FSMA, etc.).
    • Conduct regular audits and assessments of sous-vide and pasteurization equipment and processes.
    • Train and mentor production staff on proper sous-vide and pasteurization techniques and safety protocols.
    • Troubleshoot and resolve technical issues related to sous-vide and pasteurization equipment and processes.
  • Hot-Fill and Modified Atmosphere Packaging (MAP):
    • Develop, standardize, and optimize Hot-Fill and MAP processes across all manufacturing units.
    • Ensure proper equipment calibration and maintenance for Hot-Fill and MAP systems.
    • Implement and monitor gas composition and packaging integrity for MAP products.
    • Ensure compliance with all food safety and packaging regulations related to Hot-Fill and MAP.
    • Troubleshoot and resolve technical issues related to Hot-Fill and MAP equipment and processes.
  • New Production Techniques and Innovation:
    • Research and evaluate emerging food production technologies and techniques.
    • Develop and implement pilot programs for new production methods, focusing on efficiency, quality, and sustainability.
    • Collaborate with R&D, culinary teams, and equipment suppliers to explore and implement innovative solutions.
    • Stay abreast of industry trends and advancements in food processing and manufacturing.
  • Process Optimization and Efficiency:
    • Analyze production data to identify areas for improvement and implement process optimization strategies.
    • Develop and maintain standard operating procedures (SOPs) for all sous-vide, pasteurization, Hot-Fill, MAP, and new production processes.
    • Implement lean manufacturing principles to reduce waste and improve efficiency.
    • Monitor and manage production yields and costs.
  • Food Quality and Safety:
    • Ensure all products meet Whole Foods Market's high-quality standards and food safety requirements.
    • Develop and implement robust quality control programs for all advanced and new food processing technologies and techniques
    • Ensures maintenance and accurate records and documentation related to production processes and quality control for all advanced and new food processing technologies and techniques
    • Lead food safety investigations and implement corrective actions as needed for all advanced and new food processing technologies and techniques
  • Team Leadership and Collaboration:
    • Provide technical guidance and support to manufacturing teams across multiple units.
    • Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including R&D, culinary, Global FSQA, Compliance and operations.
    • Foster a culture of continuous improvement and innovation.
    • Travel to various manufacturing sites as needed; up to 35/50% travel time

Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Food Engineering, or a related field (Master's preferred).
  • Minimum 5+ years of experience in food manufacturing, with a focus on sous-vide, pasteurization, Hot-Fill, and MAP processes.
  • Knowledge of food safety regulations (HACCP, FSMA, etc.).
  • Proven experience in process optimization and implementing lean manufacturing principles.
  • Strong understanding of food chemistry, microbiology, and thermal processing.
  • Experience with various pasteurization methods (HTST, retort, HPP etc.).
  • Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills.
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team
  • Experience with new production techniques, and innovation within the food production industry.
  • Experience with large scale food production.
  • Experience in a multi-unit food manufacturing environment

Experience with advance food processing equipment, selection, training and validation.

At Whole Foods Market, we provide a fair and equal employment opportunity for all Team Members and candidates regardless of race, color, religion, national origin, gender, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, age, marital status, disability, or any other legally protected characteristic. Whole Foods Market hires and promotes individuals solely based on qualifications for the position to be filled and business needs. Whole Foods Market works with job sites like Indeed, LinkedIn, and ZipRecruiter to promote opportunities at our company. Please be aware that other career sites may not be accurate or up to date and may even be fraudulent. We encourage and recommend all candidates to apply via our site.