Senior Scientist R&D

Job title: Senior Scientist R&D

Location: Grasse, France

The main mission will be to work on Cost Manufacturing Optimization for Naturals Products for several dsm-firmenich production sites. The first task will be to find and assess short-long term opportunities and then follow up on implementation with the support of Naturals Global team.

At dsm-firmenich, being a force for good is not optional. Diversity, Equity & Inclusion is a shared responsibility woven into our daily work to not only benefit our People, Customers & Communities but also drive business value. Equal access to opportunities is a given, belonging is a shared feeling, authenticity is celebrated.

Key Responsibilities:

Drive continuous improvements in process design, cost savings, and resource utilization.
Assess current production processes/ways of working on different sites in order to improve them.
Design, Execute, Optimize, Lead lab and pilot trials. Lead projects from lab to industrialization (including pilot and process transfer).
Lead, manage and coach a small team.
Build strong scientific network internally and externally.
Assess and incorporate newest technologies either in-house or through strategic partnerships to optimize current technologies.

We offer:

A rich history and a promising future of bold scientific innovation and passionate creation with our customers.
A space to grow by encouraging and supporting curiosity and an open mindset.
A culture that prioritizes safety and well-being, both physically and mentally.
To be part of an interdisciplinary team of highly skilled scientists on an industrial site.
Exciting projects & possibility to actively contribute to the development and production of sustainable products.

You bring:

PhD or MS degree in chemical engineering, process engineering, biochemical engineering or related field.
At least 7 years of experience in R&D or Production, preferably in F&F (Flavors and Fragrances), or Specialty/Fine Chemicals.
Extensive knowledge in extraction and purification processes of Natural products (ideally F&F industry), biocatalysis and chemistry would be a plus.
Strong data analysis and interpretation mindset. Hands on design of experiments tools.
Self-starter, entrepreneur with strategic vision and good understanding on how to create business value from science.
Strong ability to multitask and prioritize work. Excellent communication skills and cross collaboration spirit; Fluent in French and English.
Experience in people management and passion for developing others.

About dsm-firmenich:

At dsm-firmenich, we don’t just meet expectations – we go beyond them.

Join our global team powered by science, creativity, and a shared purpose: to bring progress to life.

From elevating health to making fortified food and sustainable skincare, the impact of your work here will be felt by millions – every single day. Whether it’s fragrance that helps you focus, alternative meat that’s better for the planet, or reducing sugar without losing flavor, this is where you help shape the future of nutrition, health, and beauty for everyone, everywhere.

And while you’re making a difference, we’ll make sure you’re growing too. With learning that never stops, a culture that lifts you up and the freedom to move across businesses, teams, and borders. Your voice matters here. And your ideas? They’re essential to our future.

Because real progress only happens when we go beyond, together.

The application process:

Interested in this position? Please apply on-line by uploading your resume in English via our career portal. For further information, please contact Sarah Mehdi, Talent Acquisition Business Partner (Sarah.Mehdi@dsm-firmenich.com).

Inclusion, belonging and equal opportunity statement

At dsm-firmenich, we believe being a force for good starts with the way we treat each other. When people feel supported, included, and free to be themselves, they do their best work – and that’s exactly the kind of culture we’re building. A place where opportunity is truly equal, authenticity is celebrated, and everyone has the chance to grow, contribute, and feel they belong.
We’re proud to be an equal opportunity employer, and we’re serious about making our hiring process as fair and inclusive as possible. From inclusive language and diverse interview panels to thoughtful sourcing, we’re committed to reflecting the world we serve.
We welcome candidates from all backgrounds — no matter your gender, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or anything else that makes you, you.
And if you have a disability or need any support through the application process, we’re here to help – just let us know what you need, and we’ll do everything we can to make it work.

Agency statement

We’re managing this search directly at dsm-firmenich. If you’re applying as an individual, we’d love to hear from you. We’re not accepting agency submissions or proposals involving fees or commissions for this role.