We are looking for an Application Specialist- Nutrition & Plant-Based Dairy to join our Human Nutrition Solutions team based in Steenwijk, Netherlands.

About Barentz

Barentz is the global specialty ingredients solution provider. The company sources branded specialty ingredients from leading manufacturers worldwide and its ingredient experts provide value-added technical support which includes pre-mixing, blending, ingredient formulation and ingredient testing from its state-of-the-art, customized formulation centers and application laboratories in EMEA, Americas and Asia-Pacific.

Established in 1953, Barentz has operations in more than 70 countries with a strong presence in Europe and North America, and a rapidly growing network in Latin America and Asia-Pacific. With a turnover of €2.4 billion, the company employs over 2,700 people worldwide and serves more than 27,000 customers. For more information, visit:www.barentz.com

At Barentz, our core values drive our success: One Team, Knowledge-Driven, Strong Partners, Entrepreneurial, Change, and Integrity. We are one team with one goal – to achieve greatness together! If you’re passionate about these values and ready to make a difference, we want you on our team!

About this role

Job Purpose

Support the sales department by: Building ingredient supplier knowledge; Delivering NPD to customer commitments; Driving innovation ideas pro-actively; Supporting business partners and customers; Interacting with Barentz Principals; managing raw materials and recipes; Delivering project goals; identifying trends and business opportunities.

Critical results

Creating added value for Principals by performing development and testing activities within the application team.

Tasks and responsibilities

  • Build ingredient supplier knowledge & understand the technological effect in the product matrix.
  • Provide NPD support to Barentz business partners and sales organization.
  • Stimulate the NPD process with a flexible, open-minded attitude and a clear customer focus.
  • Develop new and improved products in the framework of NPD activities in different categories for the Barentz countries.
  • Identify innovative technologies, technology applications, trends, and needs in the Food industry and translate these into new opportunities within the Barentz Group.
  • Propose trial set-up for (new) ingredient testing and report findings.
  • Produce demo products for customer visits.
  • Translates project briefs into trial setup and product concepts.
  • Develop, test, optimize, and evaluate new ingredients/additives in various applications (blends/singles).
  • Deliver project goals; perfect the fundamentals, assure project deliverables as agreed with customer; ensure cost competitiveness.
  • Drive technical feasibility studies for new product ideas.
  • Implement new and improved products in the production plants.
  • Keep the development kitchen up to required quality standards (clean, work processes....).
  • Act as a competent resource to Principals.
  • Develop new and improved formulations (blends).
  • Management raw materials (storage, datasheets, QA info).
  • Perform recipe management & nutritional calculations.
  • Organize tastings for team and/or customers.
  • Report test results/ projects in English (written & verbal).
  • Comply with quality standards and (mainly) European regulations.
  • Support sales training/ sales visits when needed.

About You

Education and Experience:

  • Bachelor’s degree in food technology/science or related.
  • Relevant field experience in plant-based Dairy and Nutrition
  • Knowledge of food ingredients, product development, and regulatory standards
  • Fluent in English and Dutch.

Skills/profile:

  • Capable of solving complex problems with a solution-oriented approach.
  • Applies practical knowledge gained through education and experience.
  • Works independently with minimal supervision, demonstrating initiative and responsibility.
  • Highly organized, structured, and able to prioritize effectively.
  • Energetic, responsive to challenges, and adaptable to dynamic environments.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to influence others by presenting facts, policies, and practices clearly.
  • Enthusiastic and innovative, with a curious and ambitious mindset that drives continuous improvement.
  • A collaborative team player who inspires and motivates others.
  • Skilled in persuasive verbal presentations and strong analytical decision-making.
  • Flexible and adaptable, successfully navigating both commercial and technological environments with a "can-do" attitude.

Key interdependencies

Management

  • Human resources
  • Sales department
  • Principal managers
  • Principals
  • Division leaders

Why Barentz?

At Barentz, we’re more than just a company – we’re a global community driven by innovation and collaboration. With our positive and supportive culture, we operate under a “One Team, One Goal” mentality, ensuring everyone is aligned and working toward success. As a rapidly growing multinational in the ingredients industry, you’ll be part of an inspiring environment with global reach and fast-moving market segments.

  • Competitive package including 27 days annual leave + bonus structure.
  • An inspiring multinational company in a fast-growing and innovative business
  • Commuting allowance, up to 50 Kilometres one way
  • Flexible and hybrid working environment.
  • Fringe benefits like private health care, private pension schemes, company Fitness scheme, etc.

Interested?

If you feel excited reading the above and want to join our journey, please send your resume in English, by using the apply button. Any questions regarding this position, please contact Jill.Lan@barentz.com

Job ID: No. 195

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