Research & Development Process Engineer in Memphis, Tennessee at Riviana Foods

About the Position

Based in Memphis, TN, the R&D Process Engineer plays a key role in transforming new product concepts into successful commercial products. This hands-on position supports the full product development process—from formulation and prototype development through pilot testing, industrial validation, process scale-up, and commercialization. The R&D Process Engineer is responsible for supporting research and development activities, including the design, formulation, and development of new products, as well as prototype development in an experimental kitchen. This role conducts pilot testing and industrial validations, interprets results, and recommends product and process improvements. The position is also responsible for developing product and ingredient specifications across the rice platform, including Long Cook, Ready-to-Serve (RTS), IQF, and Instant technologies. The R&D Process Engineer supports process scale-up by transferring, testing, and optimizing processes from pilot lines to commercial production and collaborates closely with Product Development, Operations, Engineering, and Marketing to successfully bring new products to market. This position reports to and works under the direction of the R&D Director.

What You’ll Do:

• Product Development & Innovation
  • Support product development activities, formulation processes, and prototype development.
  • Recommend technical approaches, methods, and solutions using sound technical judgment.
  • Develop product, ingredient, and process specifications.
  • Prepare project documentation and executive summaries.

• Process Development & Scale-Up

  • Manage and operate laboratory and pilot plant equipment.
  • Develop operating protocols and testing requirements.
  • Coordinate industrial trials with Operations to ensure quality, safety, and productivity.
  • Support technical transfer from R&D to Production and Quality.

• Thermal Processing & Validation

  • Conduct heat penetration and distribution studies.
  • Maintain records and documentation for thermal processing equipment, including probes, readers, and software.
  • Support validation and troubleshooting of thermal processes.

• Technical Support & Collaboration

  • Prepare technical reports documenting trials and testing.
  • Provide hands-on training and technical support to Production, Quality, and other technical staff.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams and colleagues across multiple locations.
  • Protect confidential information and company intellectual property.
  • Promote and maintain safe working practices.

What We're Looking For:

• Required:
  • Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering, Food Engineering, or a related engineering discipline.
  • 3+ years of experience in R&D, process engineering, food manufacturing, or a related field.
  • Strong technical, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
  • Ability to work effectively across R&D, Operations, Engineering, Quality, and other functions.
• Technical Experience:
  • Thermal processing and retort systems.
  • Ready-to-Serve (RTS) products.
  • Instant rice processing.
  • Raw materials and ingredient functionality.
  • Food product development and regulatory requirements.
  • Pilot plant testing, industrial trials, and process scale-up.