Job Summary

This position serves as the head of our Research and Lab Department, which includes, but is not limited to, managing personnel and programs in US regulatory affairs, quality assurance, product labeling and two central laboratories.

Essential Duties/Responsibilities

Nothing in this job description restricts management's right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time.

• Provide leadership for quality assurance, product safety, regulatory compliance and product improvement programs, policies and projects for rendering and specialty operations.
• Network on behalf of the company with personnel at FDA, USDA, AAFCO, AAPFCO and other appropriate regulatory agencies.
• Advise Senior leadership on applicable risk factors such as animal disease, new regulations, etc.
• Provide technical support to Company sustainability programs and ESG Factsheet.
• Interpret applicable federal, state and local regulations and oversee application of compliant programs and procedures.
• Provide science based communications, supported by data as appropriate, to federal and state agencies regarding applicable new proposed regulations and/or inspectional observations.
• Oversee development of continuing improvement programs and projects.
• Assist in training plant management and personnel in Biosecurity, CGMP and hazard prevention programs.
• Chair the recall committees for rendering and specialty products.
• Contribute to the development and implementation of product/process innovation.
• Advise operations, sales and senior leadership on use of company products in food for pets and other animals, as needed.
• Support company biofuel, black soldier fly larva and other diversification projects.
• Oversee the company's two central analytical laboratories in the US.

Minimum Qualifications:

• PhD in Animal Nutrition, Chemistry, Meat Science or related field is required
• 10 years of industry experience.
• Certified PCQI or HACCP certification.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with animal by-products.
• Experience with product/process development and product commercialization.
• PCQI Lead Instructor certification.
• Training/experience with statistical analyses.
• Highly organized; superior time management skills.
• Able to work effectively with all levels of the corporation.
• Strong communications skills, oral and written.
• Self-motivated; self-starter.

Travel

• Approximately 60% travel within the US and internationally.

Physical Demands

• Frequently required to walk, stand, sit, climb, balance, stoop, bend, and kneel
• Frequently lifts up to 10 lbs.
• Long periods spent sitting at desk in front of computer screen.
• Regularly required reach with hands and arms.

Work Environment

• Job functions will be carried out in an office environment.

Darling Ingredients is an equal opportunity employer and gives consideration to qualified applicants without regard to race, age, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, or, protected veteran status. Know Your Rights: If you would like more information, please click on the link and paste into your browser: https://www.eeoc.gov/know-your-rights-workplace-discrimination-illegal-poster