Process Engineering Lead
Apply NowCompany: Tender Food
Location: Somerville, MA 02145
Description:
Overview
Are you looking to make a difference in the world while producing a new product? Tender is revolutionizing the food industry by solving a major global challenge: how to make meat production ethical and sustainable. Going beyond the existing plant-based burgers, we are developing alternative meat whole-cuts - think steaks and chicken breasts - using innovative technologies.
About Us
Tender Food is on a mission to transform the food industry by making meat production ethical and sustainable. We're developing whole-cut alternative meats using groundbreaking innovations in materials science, manufacturing, and tissue engineering. Originating from Harvard University and the Wyss Institute in 2020, we're now building our core technical team.
About the Role
We're looking for a dynamic Process Engineering Lead to spearhead the scaling and commercialization of our technology. In this role, you'll report to the Head of Strategic Operations and work closely with our Innovation, Development, and Operations teams. We're seeking someone who's not only technically skilled but also deeply passionate about driving meaningful change and making a lasting impact.
Qualifications
Preferred Qualifications
Why Join Us?
At Tender, we encourage you to apply even if you don't meet every qualification. We value diverse experiences and transferable skills that contribute to our mission. Join us to be part of a meaningful change!
Are you looking to make a difference in the world while producing a new product? Tender is revolutionizing the food industry by solving a major global challenge: how to make meat production ethical and sustainable. Going beyond the existing plant-based burgers, we are developing alternative meat whole-cuts - think steaks and chicken breasts - using innovative technologies.
About Us
Tender Food is on a mission to transform the food industry by making meat production ethical and sustainable. We're developing whole-cut alternative meats using groundbreaking innovations in materials science, manufacturing, and tissue engineering. Originating from Harvard University and the Wyss Institute in 2020, we're now building our core technical team.
About the Role
We're looking for a dynamic Process Engineering Lead to spearhead the scaling and commercialization of our technology. In this role, you'll report to the Head of Strategic Operations and work closely with our Innovation, Development, and Operations teams. We're seeking someone who's not only technically skilled but also deeply passionate about driving meaningful change and making a lasting impact.
Qualifications
- Education/Experience: BS, MS, or PhD in chemical engineering, food science, mechanical engineering, or 8+ years of relevant experience in process scaling and systems development.
- Technical Skills: Proven ability in scaling processes, equipment specification, installation, and qualification; strong QA/QC knowledge.
- Project Management: Demonstrated success in leading, prioritizing, and executing multiple projects, with strong systems-building skills.
- Regulatory Knowledge: Familiarity with FDA GMP food processing and food product requirements (COA, sensory evaluation).
- Fundamental Science: Solid understanding of macromolecular principles impacting mixing, transfer, and heating at scale.
- Collaboration: Proven experience working with other technical teams, co-manufacturers, equipment manufacturers, and technical consultants to solve complex problems.
- Travel: Willingness to travel for line deployment and troubleshooting.
- Startup Mindset: Excitement for hands-on, high-impact projects, willingness to wear multiple hats, and adapt in a dynamic environment.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience with CRO/CMO management.
- Proficiency in OSHA, Six Sigma, HACCP, and other food production standards.
- Experience scaling processes from bench to pilot line, with a strong focus on quality control, root cause analysis, and process understanding.
- Effective leadership with transparency and empathy across teams.
Why Join Us?
- Join a mission-driven company focused on radically transforming the meat industry.
- Work with a diverse, passionate team committed to sustainability.
- Experience a transparent, inclusive, and fun work culture.
- Take ownership of impactful projects in a fast-growing startup environment.
At Tender, we encourage you to apply even if you don't meet every qualification. We value diverse experiences and transferable skills that contribute to our mission. Join us to be part of a meaningful change!