Food Technologist – Protein & Processing

About NIZO

At NIZO, we work every day to improve food and health. Since 1948, we have partnered with international food and health companies to develop innovative solutions in the fields of bacteria, proteins, and food processing. From our high-tech R&D center in Ede, we combine science, technology, and practical expertise in our food grade processing facilities. As one of the world’s most advanced contract research organizations, we help companies bring new products to market faster, more sustainably, and more efficiently. With a growing global population, we believe that better nutrition is essential for better health – now and in the future.

What you will do

As part of the Protein & Processing team, you will contribute to applied research projects for a wide range of customers. You will take on a dual role: performing hands-on experimental work while also coordinating work packages within larger projects. Depending on the assignment, you may focus more on laboratory and pilot scale execution, or more on project coordination – often a combination of both.

Your work will span our laboratories, application center, and pilot plant. Example activities include developing dairy alternatives, characterizing ingredients, or producing prototypes through technologies, such as extrusion.

Your key responsibilities

• Execute experiments and trials in the lab, application center, and pilot plant, such as ingredient testing, prototype development, and product analyses.
• Design and perform experiments related to protein extraction, ingredient performance, and product functionality.
• Operate a wide range of equipment (e.g. rheometer, texture analyzer, light scattering instruments, extruders, Thermomix).
• Analyze data, interpret results, and write clear technical reports.
• Lead defined work packages within broader R&D or process development projects.
• Develop timelines, milestones, and progress overviews in alignment with the project manager.
• Provide regular updates to project managers and internal/external stakeholders.
• Work closely with colleagues in R&D, process engineering, quality, and production.

What you bring

• Bachelor’s or Master’s in Food Science & Technology, or comparable with demonstrated experience with food.
• Hands-on experience working with food products and food ingredients, and understanding of their functional behavior (e.g., solubility, gelation, emulsification).
• Working understanding of food and ingredient production processes.
• Strong skills in experimental design, data analysis, and reporting.
• A proactive, can‑do attitude and ability to work independently.
• Experience planning, organizing, and executing work within a project structure.
• Ability to collaborate with and manage diverse internal and external stakeholders.

What we offer

A dynamic role at the intersection of science, technology, and innovation—within one of the most advanced food research centers in the world. You will work in a collaborative environment with unique lab and pilot facilities, and contribute directly to the development of healthier, more sustainable foods.

• A diverse and challenging job in a close team working on innovative food systems
• Plenty of opportunity to develop your practical skills using modern techniques and equipment.
• A people-focused and engaging work environment where you can contribute to more sustainable and healthier food.
• A fair salary aligned with your experience, plus strong employment conditions, including a pension scheme, 25 vacation days and 13 ADV days based on fulltime employment.

Want to know more? Get in touch with Steven Cornet, steven.cornet@nizo.com

Interested? Would you like to contribute to an environment where innovation in food and health is made possible? We would be happy to get to know you!