FOOD SCIENCE RECRUITERS

Need To Hire?

OPUS International has served the Food Science industry for over 25 years. Our great reputation is only matched by our knowledge of the industry and our portfolio of contacts.

Job Seekers

If you are looking for a new job in Food Science and Technology, we are here to help you find the best career move.

Goal Setting

What our corporate clients can expect from us.

Our Clients

Examples of job placements we have made for our clients.

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Search Terms

We work on either a contingency or retained search basis.

Available Positions

Browse our currently available positions.

2024 IFT Salary & Compensation Insights: A Webinar

Do you ever find yourself wondering …

▪️ How likely are science of food professionals to get a bonus this year?
▪️ Are you working more or fewer hours than your peers?
▪️ Is salary transparency on the rise?

Join us as we answer these questions and more in our upcoming FREE webinar where we’ll take a closer look at the findings from IFT’s 2024 Compensation and Career Path Report. In an uncertain and volatile job market, knowledge is power!

Equip yourself with the facts you need to know to chart your career path. Register now:https://hubs.la/Q02S50H50

Format: Webinar
Date: October 22, 2024
Time: 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM CST

Learn from the brightest minds in food science in the July episodes of the Omnivore podcast.

Recruiter Moira McGrath shares her take on science of food career opportunities, culture fit, and the perils of job hopping. Christina Birke Rune discusses her work dispelling a myth about coffee’s acidity and its origins. Futurist Tony Hunter explores the accelerating convergence of food and technology.

Plus: This episode of Omnivore is brought to you by Almond Board of California.

Moira McGrath is president of OPUS International, an executive search firm where she and her team focus on placing food scientists with food and food ingredient manufacturers throughout the United States and Canada. Moira is a graduate of the School of Hotel Administration at Cornell University. An active IFT member, she has served or is serving on numerous university food science advisory councils, including at Cornell, UC Davis, University of Florida, Texas A&M, and Virginia Tech.

PODCAST - The Science of Food Career Opportunities

by Moira McGrath

Moira McGrath and Marie Koslowski were asked to speak to food science students at the Pet Food Forum Conference in Kansas City, MO.  in May 2023. Marie spoke about finding what would best suit you in your career choices, and Moira followed up with how to find jobs in the food science industry. She reviewed resume writing, LinkedIn presentations, interviewing tips and how ‘soft skills’ can really make a difference.

Join Moira at IFT First in Chicago where she is on the panel for “Calling All Scientists” on Monday, July 17th, 2023 at 12:15. This presentation covers many areas of how we can prepare current and next generation scientists. Moira and Marie will then be presenting at a Fireside Chat on Tuesday, July 18th, 1:00  where Moira will be discussing the benefits of using LinkedIn in your career search.

NOTE: Moira is available for paid speaking engagements related to careers in the Food Industry.

Looking For That Perfect Candidate?

With over 25 years specializing in the Food Science & Technology industry, OPUS International, Inc. has built a reputation as the top recruiter in the industry. Our work ethic is above reproof and and our network of contacts is exceptional across the industry and within related educational institutions.

Looking For That Perfect Job?

We offer only quality positions at all levels across a wide array of job opportunities in the Food Science & Technology industries from entry level to director. If you are starting your new career or seeking a change from your current position, check with us first.

OUR LATEST JOB LISTINGS…

Manufacturer’s Rep, Dairy Industry (Remote)

Manufacturer’s Rep, Dairy Industry (Remote)

Our client is a leading designer and manufacturer of Online Analyzers (UV-Vis, NIR, and Raman spectroscopy with sanitary designs) Turnkey Solutions for Process Analytics.  Since 2001, they have been a leading provider of Online Analyzers for the food, pharmaceutical, and chemical industries, specializing in real-time monitoring and process control. They are also an ODM and CM for photonics-adjacent medical technology devices.

read more
Director of Quality Assurance & Food Safety, Chicago

Director of Quality Assurance & Food Safety, Chicago

Since 1987, our client has grown into a leading seafood supplier, successfully sourcing, harvesting, and processing frozen seafood from around the world. Their mission is to deliver premium quality, sustainable seafood to restaurants, retailers, distributors, hospitality, and food service organizations globally. With a strong commitment to sustainability, and a passion for excellence, they have established themselves as a trusted name in the industry.
They are currently seeking a dedicated and experienced Quality Assurance professional to join their team and help them maintain their commitment to quality and safety.

read more

 

OPUS Areas Of Expertise

Check out the some of the common types of positions that we handle. Please note that this list only represents a fraction of the positions we have filled and not the full scope of our services. Click anywhere on drop down text to read more.

 

Why Student Internships?

Student Internships are a great way to explore your future by learning about a possible career choice. Internships are also a great way to prove your worth to a potential future employer giving you a leg up on your graduating competitors in the job marketplace.

The benefits of a student internship often work both ways as they provide a valuable resource to employers if properly defined and executed. In order to create a win-win environment for both parties, Internships have to provide an environment where the employer can get the maximum effort from the student while the student can get the maximum learning experience that correlates closely with their learning and career objectives.

Obtaining a student internship can be a complicated and involved process. Our website posts internships free of charge to our clients. Should you have an internship you would like to post, please go to our Post Internships page and complete the form. We will post the position within one business day. If you are a student, please check our listings regularly, and apply directly to the name listed on the posting. OPUS is not involved in filling internships. We post them as a service to the industry.

Employers: Do You Have Student Internships Available?

If you have any internship positions available, we will be happy to post your listing here on our web site for a period of 90 days (Or more if requested. Please provide your contact information with the internship description so that the candidate(s) can contact you directly. A link to your website should also be included.

If you have any questions, please call me.

Moira McGrath
OPUS International, Inc.
(954) 428-3888

Executive Positions:

President/CEO

 

 

 

 

 

As CEO, candidate must ensure that the Company has proper operations, controls, administrative and reporting procedures in place to effectively grow the business while ensuring operating efficiency. The overriding Company strategy will be to complement new business development activities via: new product development, business, and customer group (market share) acquisitions and the creation of strategic business alliances. Accordingly, the organization will be looking for someone with a "big picture" view, with an operational background, but who is accustomed to “rolling up their sleeves” to capitalize on opportunities and effectively manage growth. The ideal candidate is entrepreneurial yet knows the critical importance of financial and operational disciplines and controls. Previous experience in food products manufacturing or distribution is necessary.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

VP Of Engineering

 

 

 

The VP of Engineering provides the vision and direction for the future of an organizations engineering processes and technologies, ensuring the organization maintains / advances their competitive advantages in key categories.  Critical to the role is developing and managing the overall capital spend budget, overseeing cost reduction efforts to hit annual and long-term targets, ensuring manufacturing best practices such as CQV are in place, ensuring plants deliver on product, process, packaging and cost parameters as defined

 

 

 

 

 

 

VP of Research & Development/Chief Technical Officer

 

 

The VP of R&D/CTO leads a diverse, cross-functional R&D team of professionals across the following disciplines: Culinary, Product Development, Process Technology, Packaging Development and Nutrition and Regulatory Functions. This position normally reports directly to the CEO and likely partners with the Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) as well as other executives. This position develops and implements strategies to deliver short and long-term innovation portfolio, as well as maintaining product preference for all categories. The R&D function usually supports entry into new markets by developing the product portfolio as well as the manufacturing process.

 

 

VP Of Manufacturing

 

 

 

This position will be responsible for all activities at all plants. The position will normally have direct reporting responsibility for both plant managers, engineering/continuous improvement. The position would also have direct responsibility for the contract manufacturing team. The candidate will normally work closely with the VP of Operations so expectations and go forward activities are fully aligned across the plants. The position will have full alignment with QA, procurement and R&D on all business activities as well as goals and objectives.

 

 

 

 

 

 

VP of Quality Assurance & Food Safety

 

 

 

 

The VP of QA and Food Safety oversees the Quality Assurance staff,  as well as the Food Safety & Regulatory staff, which is responsible for regulatory compliance, kosher, organic, halal, etc. certifications, and compliance with various customer quality programs.

The candidate will act as the subject matter expert on behalf of the organization for quality, food safety and regulatory compliance issues.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

VP of Technical Services

 

 

 

 

 

The VP Technical Services is responsible for all activities related to Research, Product Development and Quality Assurance. The position provides leadership for Company-wide research and development programs and activities including laboratory product development, field technical service and problem-solving support while promoting quality achievement and performance improvement across the organization.

The VP Technical Services will establish and maintain Company quality concepts and strategies and assist in the development of annual research and development plans including specific goals and objectives that ensure quality management systems are in place. The VP will ensure products consistently meet customer expectations and will utilize technology to minimize costs and maximize manufacturing capacities.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Director Of Operations

 

This position will be responsible for the direction of an organization will include planning, organization, direction and provide leadership necessary for achieving plant and corporate goals in the area of Safety, Warehouse, Transportation, Quality, Employee Relations, Performance and Cost.

 

 

 

Non-Executive Positions:

Food Microbiologist

 

As the first line of defense pertaining to our food safety, Food Microbiologist primarily work to prevent food-borne diseases. The successful candidate will be experienced in studying spoilage, preservation and food poisoning.

 

Food Process Engineer

 

 

Typically, Food Process Engineers research and develop new and existing processes and products. Candidates for this position can work in the chemical, food, pharmaceutical and biochemical industries.

 

 

Food Safety Manager

 

 

The Food Safety Manager establishes and delivers food safety strategies. The right candidate will be able to lead multiple programs including Corporate Food Safety, Quality Systems as well as compliance of the Food Safety Modernization Act.

The successful candidate builds a talent pool that strengthens the food safety and quality assurance function. Thorough analysis, appropriate corrective action and follow-up the organizations best practices remain consistent.

 

 

 

Packaging Engineer

 

 

Packaging engineers must be able cover a wide range of considerations from conceptualization of food product packaging to product placement into the supply chain right through to store display. Successful packaging engineers must have a complete understanding of a broad set of disciplines including industrial design, packaging science, packaging technology, engineering, safety, material science, marketing and logistics to name a few.

 

 

Plant Manager

 

 

 

The Plant Manager will plan, organize, direct and provide leadership necessary of the achievement of all plant and the organizations goals in the area of safety, quality, employee relations, performance and cost.

A plant manager is responsible for the successful attainment of production objectives as well as implementation of policies. They also must have the ability to effectively utilize available resources and facilities.

The plant manager will plan, schedule and direct the operation of equipment and facilities to insure safe and cost-efficient operations. As part of the responsibilities, management of the annual budget is required as well as management of capital assets.

 

 

 

Quality Assurance Manager

 

 

 

A successful candidate for a quality assurance position must know that achievement of quality assurance is done by establishing good management systems and assessing its viability. Everyone involved in developing a product is ultimately responsible for its quality assurance.

 

 

 

Regulatory Affairs Manager

 

 

 

 

Food manufacturers require someone on staff that can act as a link between the company and regulatory authorities such as FDA and the USDA. Their task is to ensure that the products manufactured are in compliance with all legislation.

A successful candidate must be comfortable studying scientific and legal documents as well as understanding them and able to communicate the pertinent information to necessary staff.

The regulatory affairs manager must also be able to gather, organize and manage information into various formats.

 

 

 

 

 

Research & Development

 

 

 

 

What skills does a food scientist working in research and development need? A successful Director or Manager of Research and Development must have skills in food design, food formulation, food processing concepts and techniques.

It is also important that the successful candidate be well versed in safety concepts, sensory process as well as package design. Most importantly, those working in R&D will be overseeing production or process trials which includes the planning and organization of the trials.

 

 

 

 

Sensory Scientist

 

 

 

 

A sensory scientist is the individual in the research and development department who is the liaison between R&D and the consumer. Through testing, they determine what the consumer wants. Years ago, tests were done in malls, asking shoppers or others to taste and or smell a few different varieties of the same product, and getting their taste preferences. But in current day, sensory science has become a much more sophisticated science.  It has become a critical role R&D, as the information they can provide can start the product development process on the right path. A sensory scientist works as a partner with product development teams, providing cross functional support to teams by designing, executing, analyzing and reporting all kinds of tests; descriptive analysis, shelf life testing, discrimination testing and consumer research.

 

 

 

 

About OPUS International

OPUS International, Inc., is an executive search firm specializing in the Food Science industry. We’re proud of our tradition of ethical, professional service to our clients – the world’s leading food and beverage companies.

We’re equally proud of the trust placed in us by our candidates – scientists and executives who turn to OPUS when it’s time for career advancement.

Over our 25 year history, we have developed a reputation in the Food Industry as being one of the leading recruitment companies offering Contingency Search and Retained Search services. We also serve our clients by offering free postings of Student Internship positions on this Food Science web site.

If you are looking for a new career in the Food Science industry, check out our complete Job Listings. If you don’t see what you are looking for, please contact us – we may know of the ideal upcoming opportunity.

Testimonials

“Moira is an institution in the areas of human resources and recruitment.

She always seeks the best for their clients and candidates to ensure a long-term relationship. Her interest is not only in the professional side of the candidate, it also includes the personal side, ensuring that the candidate and family will have a smooth, comfortable and successful transition.”

Claudio B.

“OPUS International, Inc. is very thorough, knowledgeable about the marketplace and takes a proactive approach to bringing the right candidate and right company together. President Moira McGrath understands the business world and genuinely cares about both the clients she works with and the candidates she places. During a recent search, Moira delivered a number of excellent candidates for our review in a very short period of time. Her attention to detail, exceptional follow through, accessibility and expertise in the Food Science industry are real assets to all involved with the process. She takes the time to understand your company and what it takes for a candidate to be successful in your organization. Working with Opus International, Inc. is a pleasure and the right business decision.”

Jane S

“Moira and her team know the Food Science field better than any other firm out there. OPUS was my “go to” firm for all research & development and quality assurance search while I worked with Rich’s. They provide the best value in terms of quality, depth and span of relationships, managing the candidate and hiring manager experience and cost. On a personal level, Moira is one of the most intelligent and well-rounded leaders in the search business.”

Bob C.

 

Don't Wait Any Longer. Find That Perfect Candidate Or Job Today!

 

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1191 E. Newport Center Drive, Suite PH-E, Deerfield Beach, FL 33442
Tel: (954) 428-3888

 

 

Established
1993