Advanced Food Processing & Innovation Manager

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.

The wage range for this position is $100,244.00-$170,415.00 Annual, commensurate with experience. Whole Foods Market offers "Whole Benefits". Whole Benefits may include health insurance, retirement plan benefits, eligibility for a store discount, paid time off and access to other benefit programs. Eligibility for Whole Benefits is determined under the terms of the applicable Whole Benefits plan at a person’s date of hire. For additional information, visit our Whole Foods Market Careers site: https://careers.wholefoodsmarket.com/benefits.

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.

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