R&D Operations & Measurement Sciences Junior Scientist
PepsiCo · Plano · $54,700–$82,050 (stated in the posting)
OverviewThe Junior Scientist is responsible for performing end-to-end analytical laboratory testing of food products, preparing samples according to approved methods, maintaining accurate records, supporting instrument readiness, and delivering prompt, high-quality analytical data. This role can be assigned other laboratory activities under the direction of the Analytical Technical Manager.
The role also supports innovation projects, quality monitoring, method development activities, coordinating external testing, and laboratory continuous improvement initiatives while maintaining compliance with safety and quality standards.
Responsibilities
Analytical Testing & Data Generation
- Execute routine and non-routine analytical testing according to approved methods and protocols.
- Prepare samples, standards, and reagents required for laboratory testing activities.
- Collect, analyze, document, and communicate analytical results in a timely manner.
- Ensure data integrity and accurate documentation in laboratory systems and records.
- Support investigation of technical issues and implementation of corrective actions.
Laboratory Operations
- Maintain laboratory equipment and coordinate routine maintenance activities.
- Monitor laboratory supplies and consumables and support inventory management.
- Assist with laboratory organization, housekeeping, and operational readiness, as needed.
- Support implementation of new equipment, technologies, and workflows.
Sample Management
- Coordinate sample receipt, tracking, storage, and disposal according to established procedures.
- Maintain chain-of-custody documentation and sample traceability records.
- Manage sample inventories and ensure compliance with laboratory protocols.
Method Development & Continuous Improvement
- Support method development, validation, and optimization activities.
- Assist with experimental design, data collection, and data interpretation.
- Identify opportunities to improve laboratory efficiency, quality, and turnaround time.
- Participate in process improvement and operational excellence initiatives as well as cross training.
Cross-Functional Collaboration
- Partner with Product Development, Quality, Manufacturing, and R&D stakeholders to support project testing needs.
- Communicate project status, testing progress, and potential risks to stakeholders.
- Collaborate with broader Measurement Sciences teams to ensure alignment and consistency of laboratory practices.
- Support knowledge sharing and cross-training activities within the team.
Safety & Compliance
- Follow all laboratory safety requirements and Good Laboratory Practice (GLP) guidelines.
- Maintain compliance with company quality systems, laboratory procedures, and regulatory expectations.
- Participate in safety audits, inspections, and corrective action activities.
Compensation and Benefits
- The expected compensation range for this position is between $54,700 - $82,050.
- Location, confirmed job-related skills, experience, and education will be considered in setting actual starting salary. Your recruiter can share more about the specific salary range during the hiring process.
- Paid time off subject to eligibility, including paid parental leave, vacation, sick, and bereavement.
- In addition to salary, PepsiCo offers a comprehensive benefits package to support our employees and their families, subject to elections and eligibility: Medical, Dental, Vision, Disability, Health, and Dependent Care Reimbursement Accounts, Employee Assistance Program (EAP), Insurance (Accident, Group Legal, Life), Defined Contribution Retirement Plan.
Qualifications
- Required Qualifications
- BS or MS degree in Chemistry, Analytical Chemistry, Food Science, Chemical Engineering, Biology, or related scientific discipline.
- Minimum 2-3 years of laboratory experience in an industrial, research, or analytical environment.
- Experience performing analytical testing and maintaining laboratory documentation.
- Strong organizational, problem-solving, and communication skills.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, Word, and PowerPoint.
- Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience in food, beverage, consumer packaged goods, or analytical laboratory environments.
- Experience with laboratory information management systems (LIMS).
- Experience supporting method development and validation activities.
- Knowledge of statistical analysis and data interpretation.
- Experience collaborating on cross-functional project teams.
EEO Statement
Our Company will consider for employment qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with the requirements of the Fair Credit Reporting Act, and all other applicable laws, including but not limited to, San Francisco Police Code Sections 4901-4919, commonly referred to as the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance; and Chapter XVII, Article 9 of the Los Angeles Municipal Code, commonly referred to as the Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, or disability status.
PepsiCo is an Equal Opportunity Employer: Female / Minority / Disability / Protected Veteran / Sexual Orientation / Gender Identity / Age
If you'd like more information about your EEO rights as an applicant under the law, please download the available EEO is the Law & EEO is the Law Supplement documents. View PepsiCo EEO Policy.
Please view our Pay Transparency Statement
Analytical Testing & Data Generation
- Execute routine and non-routine analytical testing according to approved methods and protocols.
- Prepare samples, standards, and reagents required for laboratory testing activities.
- Collect, analyze, document, and communicate analytical results in a timely manner.
- Ensure data integrity and accurate documentation in laboratory systems and records.
- Support investigation of technical issues and implementation of corrective actions.
Laboratory Operations
- Maintain laboratory equipment and coordinate routine maintenance activities.
- Monitor laboratory supplies and consumables and support inventory management.
- Assist with laboratory organization, housekeeping, and operational readiness, as needed.
- Support implementation of new equipment, technologies, and workflows.
Sample Management
- Coordinate sample receipt, tracking, storage, and disposal according to established procedures.
- Maintain chain-of-custody documentation and sample traceability records.
- Manage sample inventories and ensure compliance with laboratory protocols.
Method Development & Continuous Improvement
- Support method development, validation, and optimization activities.
- Assist with experimental design, data collection, and data interpretation.
- Identify opportunities to improve laboratory efficiency, quality, and turnaround time.
- Participate in process improvement and operational excellence initiatives as well as cross training.
Cross-Functional Collaboration
- Partner with Product Development, Quality, Manufacturing, and R&D stakeholders to support project testing needs.
- Communicate project status, testing progress, and potential risks to stakeholders.
- Collaborate with broader Measurement Sciences teams to ensure alignment and consistency of laboratory practices.
- Support knowledge sharing and cross-training activities within the team.
Safety & Compliance
- Follow all laboratory safety requirements and Good Laboratory Practice (GLP) guidelines.
- Maintain compliance with company quality systems, laboratory procedures, and regulatory expectations.
- Participate in safety audits, inspections, and corrective action activities.
Compensation and Benefits
- The expected compensation range for this position is between $54,700 - $82,050.
- Location, confirmed job-related skills, experience, and education will be considered in setting actual starting salary. Your recruiter can share more about the specific salary range during the hiring process.
- Paid time off subject to eligibility, including paid parental leave, vacation, sick, and bereavement.
- In addition to salary, PepsiCo offers a comprehensive benefits package to support our employees and their families, subject to elections and eligibility: Medical, Dental, Vision, Disability, Health, and Dependent Care Reimbursement Accounts, Employee Assistance Program (EAP), Insurance (Accident, Group Legal, Life), Defined Contribution Retirement Plan.
- Required Qualifications
- BS or MS degree in Chemistry, Analytical Chemistry, Food Science, Chemical Engineering, Biology, or related scientific discipline.
- Minimum 2-3 years of laboratory experience in an industrial, research, or analytical environment.
- Experience performing analytical testing and maintaining laboratory documentation.
- Strong organizational, problem-solving, and communication skills.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, Word, and PowerPoint.
- Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience in food, beverage, consumer packaged goods, or analytical laboratory environments.
- Experience with laboratory information management systems (LIMS).
- Experience supporting method development and validation activities.
- Knowledge of statistical analysis and data interpretation.
- Experience collaborating on cross-functional project teams.