About PepsiCo

PepsiCo is one of the world's leading food and beverage companies, with an iconic portfolio that includes beloved brands like Pepsi, Gatorade, Lay's, Quaker, and Frito-Lay. Headquartered in Purchase, New York, PepsiCo operates globally, delivering innovative products that delight consumers while prioritizing sustainability and positive impact. With over 300,000 employees worldwide, PepsiCo fosters a culture of innovation, collaboration, and excellence. In Plano, Texas, our state-of-the-art facilities drive cutting-edge R&D for North American operations, making it a hub for food scientists and strategists shaping the future of snacking and nutrition.

Role Overview

The R&D Associate Principal Scientist – Foods Specification Team role at PepsiCo in Plano, Texas, is a pivotal position within the PFNA R&D Operational Excellence team. This full-time role oversees the ingredient specification operations for Quaker and Frito-Lay across the U.S. and Canada, ensuring compliance with PepsiCo's global standards. You'll lead end-to-end specification management, integrating digital ecosystems for traceability and efficiency. Ideal for food science professionals with R&D, Food Safety, Quality, Supply Chain, Operations, or Engineering backgrounds, this position offers hands-on experience in commercialization execution and cross-functional leadership. With a salary range of $89,000 to $149,000, plus a 10% performance bonus, it's an opportunity to drive resource-efficient innovation at a premium consumer goods leader.

Key Responsibilities

In this role, you'll spearhead strategic workstreams for ingredient specifications across Innovation, Productivity, Brand Stewardship, and portfolio transformation. Key duties include developing resource plans, aligning cross-functional teams like Procurement, Co-Manufacturing, Quality, SRA, and Legal, and engaging directly with suppliers. You'll proactively manage risks with Food Safety, Quality, and Regulatory experts, mentor junior team members, and coordinate with the MCC specification writing team for efficiency. Additional responsibilities encompass final specification reviews, data validation, training delivery, SME reviewer prioritization, and budget optimization for external support. Expect to interpret complex data, identify process gaps, and ensure business continuity through a problem-solving mindset.

Cross-Functional Leadership

Build and sustain partnerships across R&D and non-R&D functions to deliver timebound plans and seamless specification lifecycles.

Risk Management & Compliance

Assess ingredient risks, ensure global standards adherence, and escalate issues appropriately for uninterrupted operations.

Qualifications & Requirements

Candidates must hold a BS, MS, or PhD in Food Science, Food Engineering, or a related field. Required experience includes BS with 5+ years, MS with 3-4+ years, or PhD with 2-3+ years in R&D, manufacturing, product/process development, commercialization, or optimization in the foods industry. Demonstrated project management skills for handling complex, simultaneous projects are essential. Success demands flexibility, urgency balanced with quality, critical thinking to integrate business needs into technical decisions, and proficiency in collating diverse data sources. Backgrounds in Food Safety, Quality, Supply Chain, Operations, or Engineering are highly valued.

Benefits & Perks

PepsiCo offers a premium compensation package for this role, starting with a salary of $89,000 to $149,000 based on experience, location, and skills. Eligible employees receive a 10% annual performance bonus, paid time off including parental leave, vacation, sick days, and bereavement. Our comprehensive benefits include medical, dental, vision, disability coverage, Health and Dependent Care Reimbursement Accounts, Employee Assistance Program (EAP), accident, group legal, and life insurance. Additionally, participate in our Defined Contribution Retirement Plan to secure your financial future. PepsiCo supports work-life balance and family needs through flexible elections and eligibility-based perks.

Career Growth

At PepsiCo, career advancement is a reality for high performers. This Associate Principal Scientist role provides exposure to end-to-end R&D processes, digital ecosystems, and global standards, positioning you for senior leadership in Operational Excellence or broader R&D functions. Mentoring opportunities, cross-functional projects, and access to training enhance your expertise in food innovation. PepsiCo's commitment to employee development includes leadership programs, tuition reimbursement, and internal mobility across brands like Quaker and Frito-Lay. Join a company where 90% of senior roles are filled internally, fueling long-term growth in Plano and beyond.

Why Join Us

Choosing PepsiCo means contributing to consumer-centric innovations that reach millions daily. In Plano, Texas, you'll work in a collaborative environment with cutting-edge tools for traceability and efficiency. Enjoy premium benefits, competitive pay, and a culture that values diversity, sustainability, and bold ideas. PepsiCo's focus on positive agriculture, reduced emissions, and healthier products aligns purpose with profession. This role offers stability in a dynamic industry, with opportunities to influence Quaker and Frito-Lay's future while advancing your career at a Fortune 50 powerhouse.

Role FAQs

What experience levels qualify for this position?

BS with 5+ years, MS with 3-4+ years, or PhD with 2-3+ years in relevant food industry roles.

Is relocation assistance provided?

Discuss specific opportunities with your recruiter during the hiring process.

What brands will I support?

Primarily Quaker and Frito-Lay in the U.S. and Canada.

Are there remote work options?

This is an on-site role in Plano, Texas, to support operational excellence.

How does PepsiCo support professional development?

Through training, mentoring, leadership programs, and internal advancement opportunities.