Food Technologist Job Description

About Deli Star (Who We Are)

Deli Star is a next-generation food manufacturing company reimagining what’s possible in protein innovation. Specializing in fresh, sous-vide cooked proteins and patented food safety technologies, we serve some of the most trusted brands and culinary teams across the U.S.

We’re not your typical manufacturer, we’re a mission-driven startup powered by entrepreneurial energy, scientific rigor, and a relentless drive to create a more nutritious, efficient, and sustainable food system. With a team of 150 employees, we are small enough to be nimble and innovative, yet established enough to make a lasting impact.

Deli Star is proud of our rapid growth, strong customer partnerships, and long-term vision to build a vertically integrated, tech-forward manufacturing platform.

We encourage applicants to visit our website to get a feel for our culture, values, and commitment to innovation. It offers a great sense of who we are and our company’s history. 

Role Overview

This role drives the creation of next-generation deli meats and sous vide products, blending hands-on formulation, ingredient innovation, and precision processing to bring bold concepts to life. You’ll assist product trials from benchtop to full-scale production, using sensory insights and quality analytics to refine texture, flavor, and performance.

Working cross-functionally with marketing and sales, you’ll help craft compelling customer experiences through innovative recipes and product showcases, while ensuring seamless sample fulfillment and execution. This is a high-impact, fast-paced role at the intersection of culinary creativity and food science, shaping premium protein products from concept to market.

This is a full-time, exempt position, reporting into our Director of Product Development at our St. Louis, MO Office. 

Key Responsibilities 

R&D and Commercialization Support

• Support formulation of new and existing products

• Prepare bench samples and document formula iterations

• Conduct ingredient functionality testing and comparative trials

• Aid in execution of pilot and full-scale production trials

Quality and Sensory Tracking of R&D Products

• Conduct sensory analysis for products during developmental stages of projects

• Utilize a variety of quality techniques to build a robust product knowledge base

  • Texture analysis, pH, etc.

• Participate in product cuttings and in evaluating results

• Aid in facilitating knowledge transfer from R&D to QA

Collaboration with Marketing Department on New innovation and Customer Experience

• Assist with technical support, prototype development, and product displays needed for trade shows, and other marketing activities

• Develop and execute innovative recipes for customer experience sessions

Customer Sales Sample Fulfillment

• Ship requested sales samples in a timely manner

• Keep records of products and shipping information

• Maintain supply of shipping materials on hand at Food Discovery Center

Education & Experience:

• Bachelor of Science degree in Food Science/Meat Science/Culinology, or related area

• Hands-on product development or lab experience including Internship/Co-op

• Exposure to sensory evaluation and basic quality testing

• Culinary experience (professional kitchen, butchery, or strong personal passion) preferred

Skills:

• Knowledge of meat systems, thermal processing, or sous vide is a plus

• Familiarity with HACCP, GMPs, and food safety standards

• Creativity in developing applications, recipes, and product concepts

• Strong attention to detail in executing formulations and trials

• Hands-on, proactive, and comfortable in fast-paced environments

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to lift 25 lbs. frequently and occasionally lift up to 50 lbs.

• Ability to stand for extended periods during product trials and production runs

Work Environment:

• Comfortable working in a variety of environments, including pilot plants, production facilities, and refrigerated areas (45-50F)

What You’ll Love (Benefits & Perks) - Check out the details here: Explore Our Benefits

• Comprehensive benefits (medical, dental, vision, etc.) that begin on day one of hire.

• Voluntary benefits including additional life, disability, short term disability, etc.

• 401k & company provided match

• Unlimited PTO

• Tuition Reimbursement

• Company led Leadership & Development Programs 

• 10 Company Paid Holidays

• Bonus Incentive Programs (Note, bonuses are subject to the rules governing the program, whereby an award, if any, depends on various factors, including, without limitation, individual and organizational performance.)

Disclaimer: The above statements are not intended to be a complete statement of job content, rather to act as a guide to the essential functions performed by the employee assigned to this classification. Management retains the discretion to add or change the duties of the position at any time. 

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, protected veteran status or other protected status. EEO/M/F/Vet/Disabled. All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.