Application Specialist - Paramus, NJ

Performance & Active Nutrition | Paramus, NJ · At FrieslandCampina Ingredients, we unlock the power of dairy proteins to nourish people at every stage of life. As a global leader in Adult and Early Life Nutrition, we combine 150+ years of dairy expertise with cutting-edge science ...

Job description

Performance & Active Nutrition | Paramus, NJ
At FrieslandCampina Ingredients, we unlock the power of dairy proteins to nourish people at every stage of life. As a global leader in Adult and Early Life Nutrition, we combine 150+ years of dairy expertise with cutting-edge science to create ingredients that perform—both technically and commercially.

We are looking for a passionate Applications Specialist with deep protein expertise who thrives in the lab, enjoys collaborating with customers, and loves bringing innovative nutrition concepts to life. In this role, you will develop inspiring, market-relevant applications that showcase the functionality and value of our protein ingredients—helping customers succeed and driving sustainable business growth.

What We Ask
What You Bring

• Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Food Technology, or a related field (Master's preferred)
• 5+ years of hands-on applications or product development experience, ideally with protein ingredients
• Strong technical expertise in RTDs, protein bars, gummies, yogurts, powder shakes, and related formats
• Deep understanding of dairy proteins and ingredient functionality (hydrolysates, encapsulates, fibers/GOS a plus)
• Ability to evaluate, taste, and clearly describe sensory and flavor profiles
• Knowledge of the Performance & Active Nutrition market, trends, and customer expectations
• Strong communication, organization, and project coordination skills
• Comfortable working independently while collaborating with global teams across time zones
• Willingness to travel 10–30% as needed

Who You Are

• A hands-on problem solver who loves translating science into real products
• Curious, innovative, and motivated to push applications further
• Commercially minded, with a strong customer focus
• A natural collaborator who thrives in a fast-paced, cross-functional environment
• Committed to continuous learning and professional growth

What We Offer
FrieslandCampina Ingredients is a dynamic, challenging, and innovative environment where you will collaborate with a diverse team to make a difference.

We believe in nourishing growth so that you may continuously learn and grow in the direction you desire.

Vacancy Description
What You'll Do
Protein Application Development & Prototyping

• Develop a broad portfolio of protein-forward applications to demonstrate functionality, sensory performance, and differentiation
• Use applications as commercial conversation starters with customers and internal stakeholders
• Translate ingredient functionality into clear technical and sensory benefits across food matrices
• Continuously explore new formats, processing conditions, and trends in Performance & Active Nutrition

Customer & Commercial Support

• Act as a trusted technical partner to customers, collaborating with their R&D teams on joint development projects
• Support commercial objectives by aligning applications with customer needs, claims, and market positioning
• Work closely with Sales and TSS to maintain and grow existing business while supporting new innovations
• Capture and track customer insights and project progress using Salesforce

Innovation & Capability Expansion

• Expand local and external prototyping capabilities to increase application reach and speed-to-market
• Leverage FrieslandCampina's global R&D resources to accelerate innovation
• Proactively coordinate projects across functions and regions

Lab Ownership & Excellence

• Maintain the Paramus applications lab and sample inventory to ensure readiness and efficiency
• Ensure equipment, materials, and workflows support fast-paced customer and commercial needs

Staying true to who you really are, that is your starting point at FrieslandCampina. Because it is precisely by embracing our differences that we can grow together. We want to create a working environment that allows all employees to bring their best and authentic selves. If who we are suits you, but you're not sure if you're the best fit for the role, we still encourage you to apply so we can help you find the role that fits you best.

Team Details
Staying close to our beliefs is what made FrieslandCampina what it is today. You will work with a global and international TSS & Application team based across the world. This team is a part of a bigger R&D organization, with headquarters in Wageningen the Netherlands.

For over 150 years, we have treasured the unique nature of our differences. FrieslandCampina is one of the largest dairy cooperatives in the world, owned by dairy farmers. Every day our farmers and employees across the world try to get the most out of milk, from grass to glass. It is how we operate. We believe that when you stay true to your nature, you will get the most out of our natural potential. If that is in your nature too. Bring your spark and Unleash your nature.

Here, you'll:
Join a team that values diversity, curiosity, and collaboration.

Work in a dynamic, science-driven culture with a focus on growth and innovation.

Be empowered to pursue your own growth, both personally and professionally.

Help shape the future of functional and active nutrition.

We Value Every Voice
FrieslandCampina Ingredients North America, Inc. is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to creating a diverse, inclusive, and respectful workplace for all.

Ready to Make a Difference?
Bring your spark. Unleash your nature.

Apply today and be part of something greater.