R&D Engineer (Protein Processing Technology)

Do you want to develop innovative equipment that advances the protein processing industry? Are you looking for a role where you can move seamlessly from concept design and 3D CAD modeling to hands-on prototype development and testing?

Cozzini, LLC is seeking an R&D Engineer (Protein Processing Technology) to join our growing innovation team. As a leading manufacturer of food processing equipment for the protein industry, we design and build advanced capital equipment used to grind, mix, pump, emulsify, and process meat and protein products for food manufacturers around the world.

In this role, you will drive the research, design, development, and testing of next-generation protein processing technologies. You will work closely with cross-functional teams to create innovative, sanitary, high-performance equipment that helps customers improve efficiency, product quality, food safety, and sustainability.

Responsibilities:

• Research industry trends, customer needs, and emerging technologies to design and develop new machinery and processing solutions for the protein industry.
• Translate concepts into working prototypes. Conduct testing, analyze performance data, identify opportunities for improvement, and support product commercialization.
• Design and troubleshoot mechanical systems including grinding, mixing, vacuum, pumping, conveying, and material handling equipment, while collaborating on electrical controls, automation, and motion systems.
• Incorporate sanitary design principles and ensure equipment meets applicable USDA, FDA, OSHA, CE, and food processing standards.
• Partner with Sales, Manufacturing, Quality, Service, and customers to develop solutions that address operational challenges and market demands.
• Contribute to intellectual property development, product improvement initiatives, and technology roadmaps that support Cozzini's leadership in protein processing equipment.

What We’re Looking For:

• Strong engineering fundamentals with experience in capital equipment, food processing machinery, automation, or manufacturing environments.
•  Interest in protein processing technologies and industrial food production systems. 
• Ability to work across mechanical, electrical, and manufacturing disciplines. 
• Hands-on problem-solving skills with a passion for testing, troubleshooting, and continuous improvement. 
• Strong communication and collaboration skills in a cross-functional environment.

Benefits:

• Health Insurance
• Health Savings Account w/ Employer contribution
• Flexible Spending Account w/ Employer contribution
• Dental Insurance
• Company Paid Disability Insurance
• Employee Assistance Program
• Company Paid Life Insurance
• Paid holidays
• Paid time off
• 401k
• Vision Insurance

Cozzini, LLC is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EOE/M/F/Vets/Disabled) employer and welcomes all qualified applicants.
Principals only, please no third parties.

• Minimum of 3 years of experience in R&D engineering, preferably within food processing, protein processing, or capital equipment manufacturing environments. 
• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics Engineering, or a related engineering discipline. 
• Experience designing and developing industrial machinery or processing equipment. 
• Proficiency with CAD software such as SolidWorks and AutoCAD. 
• Familiarity with USDA, FDA, and other food industry regulations and sanitary equipment design principles. 
• Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and problem-solving skills. 
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills. 
• Ability to manage multiple projects in a fast-paced development environment. 
• Willingness to travel as needed to support equipment testing, installations, and customer interactions.