Senior R&D Process Technologist

Job Description

As Senior R&D Process Technologist, you will be our lead expert in coffee processing technology. You will support shaping the future technology roadmap, turn new technologies into business value, and shape our global factory network with strategic technical expertise.

In this role, you will:

• Build the coffee processing technology roadmap based on future business needs and capability gaps.
• Scan and assess new technologies and trends, and identify where they can add value across our products and factories.
• Turn market and consumer insights into clear R&D priorities and projects.
• Define and drive the IP strategy for coffee processing, including patent generation and idea development.
• Lead the research phase of technology projects and prepare them for development.
• Coach and support project teams with technical expertise and problem solving.
• Build strong external partnerships with universities, suppliers, and research institutes.

Qualifications

• Education in a Chemical Engineering, Food technology, Food science or Engineering food related technical field (e.g., Biochemistry, Food Chemistry and/or Chemical Engineering)
• Over 10+ years of proven track record with product development & innovation or process technologies in the food industry (R&D and/or Operations). Built up network in the area of expertise.
• Interaction and influence at a senior management level and broad business understanding
• Experience in manufacturing, process engineering, food safety, product/process design and commercialization
• Experience in multi disciplinary project teams and project management
• Experience in patent generation, landscaping and building IP strategy.
• Sound understanding of HACCP, food safety, legal, environmental and regulatory parameters
• Innovative Mindset: Passion for pushing boundaries and exploring new possibilities.
• Business Acumen: Ability to balance technical excellence with commercial viability.

Company Description

About us:

JDE Peet’s is the world’s leading pure-play coffee company, with brands like Peet’s, L’OR, Jacobs and local icons across 100+ markets.

We work as one team guided by our values:

• Dare to Amaze
• Own It
• Make It Simple
• Win Together.

Here, you’ll find the freedom to innovate, the courage to take bold steps, and the support to grow your career in a global environment.

Why join us (what’s in it for you)

• Efficiency culture: we don’t believe in endless office hours, we work as a team to focus on what matters most, keep things simple, and deliver the best results efficiently.
• Real time to switch off and recharge: enjoy 25 vacation days + 12 ADV days every year - so you can take care of your mind and body, not just your inbox.
• Hybrid: 1 day/week working from home to support work-life balance
• Strong people protection: respect & equality, everyone has a voice; employee unions actively review and protect employee rights
• Learning budget: €1,500 net/year (can accumulate) for courses, certifications, conferences
• Growth & ambition: with regular performance reviews and strong internal mobility, you’ll have continuous opportunities to grow with us. More than 50% of our roles are filled by internal talent, both nationally and internationally.