Product Development Extrusion Scientist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Create new foods that people will enjoy as a Scientist Product Development for our Cheez-IT, Club, Townhouse, and Toasteds Cracker business. Executing from ideation and product design through scale-up you will manage projects and assist on complex programs. This includes new product introductions and value transformation savings initiatives. In addition, you will focus on improvements with product quality and productivity for capacity in North American operations. The hybrid role can be based out of Battle Creek, MI, but may consider individuals in Chicago, IL. Estimated travel is 20-40% (will be closer to 40% for individuals in the Chicago area).   

Part of the Salty Snacking Research and Development team, you will make an impact contributing on cross-functional project teams. Innovate as you develop and refine food process technology from idea generation through proof of concept to commercialization. As an innovator, project leader, and technical problem solver, you will team up with others to provide timely and cost-effective innovation and renovation. 

A Taste of What You’ll Be Doing

• Drive Business Growth – Lead and coordinate key projects while giving general direction to assigned teams. Together, you will accomplish projects on technical and scientific investigation or developments. This includes (but not limited to) product relocations, flavor/seasoning extensions, renovations, new products, value transformation savings, or moderate capital projects.

• Leadership – Demonstrate personal capabilities as a project manager, planner, coordinator, communicator, and technical expert. Provide general directions to assigned cross-functional teams in accomplishing projects.
• What’s Trending? – Show an innovative mindset in discovery, advancement, and evaluation of new technologies in food/process research and development. This includes identifying applications to new products, improved products, and/or increased efficiency on existing processes.
• Innovation/Creativity – Provide timely innovative / cost-effective improvements, concepts, developments, and scientific insight. Demonstrate an understanding with respect to new or existing products or processes across the network.
• Technical Expertise - Keep current with the latest developments and technology through investigation, training, and communication within that discipline.

We’re Looking for Someone With

• Bachelor of Science Degree in Science or Engineering or related field and strong relevant experience. 
• Leadership, cost consciousness, communication skills, and diplomacy. This will promote strong relationships across all facets of the organization and enable effective execution of projects.
• Previous experience working with project teams. This includes planning and coordinating project activities, communicating progress and challenges, and being a technical expert for projects.

Compensation

The annual salary range is $86,720 - $120,000, which is based on various factors such as location, experience and skill. Discretionary bonuses based on company and individual performance are also available.

What’s Next

Applications for this position will be accepted through September 13, 2026.  After you apply, your application will be reviewed by a real recruiter, so it may take us a few weeks to get back with you by email or phone. If you join our team, you’ll be rewarded for the difference you make. Our comprehensive benefits offer you the support you need through your life events, big or small. All applicants must have permanent legal authorization to work in the United States. Kellanova does not sponsor employment visas for this role.

Benefits include medical, dental, vision, life, accidental death & dismemberment insurance, employee assistance program, short-term disability coverage, and long-term disability insurance. Also, voluntary income protection benefits such as supplemental life, accident as well as a 401(k) plan with company contributions is available. Part-time employees may have access to benefits on a pro-rated basis. See KellanovaTotalHealth.com for more information.

Need assistance throughout the application or hiring process? Email

USA.Recruitment@Kellanova.com.

Get to Know Us

We’ve always been driven to unleash the full potential of our differentiated brands and our passionate people. Our iconic, world-class brands at Kellanova include Pringles, Cheez-It, Pop-Tarts, MorningStar Farms, Special K, Krave, Zucaritas, Tresor, Crunchy Nut, among others.

Mars, Incorporated has acquired Kellanova in a transaction that brings together iconic brands, storied legacies and outstanding capabilities with a view to shape the future of snacking. You can learn more here, and our hiring teams will be happy to discuss further questions if your application advances in the hiring process.

Let’s shape the future of snacking.

Kellanova is an Equal Opportunity Employer that strives to provide an inclusive work environment, a seat for everyone at the table, and embraces the diverse talent of its people. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, ethnicity, disability, religion, national origin, gender, gender identity, gender expression, marital status, sexual orientation, age, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. For more information regarding our efforts to advance Equity, Diversity & Inclusion, please visit our website here.