R&D Region Assoc Principal Engineer

Background/Description:
The PepsiCo Foods Applied AI R&D team is a fast-paced department focusing on the utilization of data to improve our innovation and supply chain processes.  This team will be critical to the long-term transformation of PepsiCo and the application of big data and AI/Machine Learning.

The primary focus for this role is improving PepsiCo’s core supply chain processes utilizing advanced control mechanisms like AI and machine learning.  Associates in this role will be part of a larger team looking to deliver complete end-to-end automation of our industrial processes for Lay’s potato chips, Doritos tortilla chips, and Cheetos puffs that will enhance our supply chain team’s ability to deliver the best possible products under ever-changing conditions.  This role will be based in Plano, TX.

Associates in this role will be expected to have strong communication/collaboration skills as they will be working with cross-functional partners on the supply chain, data analytics, and IT teams as well as external vendors to execute our holistic agenda.  Experience working with supply chain or industrial processes will be critical, and the ability to apply and learn technical applications of machine vision, artificial intelligence, and machine learning will be instrumental to achieve success in the role.

PepsiCo’s digital transformation has been publicly committed and is seen as a key priority for the future.  This role is an exciting opportunity to be part of shaping the long term supply chain processes for multiple billion dollar foods brands.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop research plan and execute testing utilizing machine vision and AI/machine learning on Cheetos, Doritos, and Lay’s industrial processes at multiple manufacturing locations

• Develop robust roll-out strategy for application of technology at additional manufacturing facilities with a mind for thoughtful adaptation

• Collaborate with technical experts in R&D, supply chain, IT, and data analytics to execute testing and build robust technology

• Partner with statistics and modelling teams for development of robust testing strategies

• Provide project updates to key R&D and cross-functional executive leadership

• Translate testing results into business potential for long term cross-functional evaluation

Note: COVID-19 vaccination is a condition of employment for this role.  Please note that all such company vaccine requirements provide the opportunity to request an approved accommodation or exemption under applicable law.

Qualifications
 

• Education/Certifications:  BS, MS or PhD. Degree in Engineering

• Work Experience:  3+ years of process design/product development experience

• Previous experience working in or with supply chain manufacturing teams

• Strong leadership and collaboration skills

• Independent execution of project creation and execution while aligning key internal stakeholders

• Ability to influence, collaborate and communicate both above and below level

• Demonstrated capability to effectively manage complex projects or multiple projects simultaneously

• Demonstrated understanding of how to incorporate business needs into technical decisions

• Ability and interest to work in laboratory, pilot plant and manufacturing scale environments

• Willingness to travel up to 30% (ebbs and flows, primarily North America)

• Additional skills that can be learned on-the-job but will benefit associates from the start:

• Experience with Python/R or other data science/data execution tools

• Knowledge of machine vision or use of AI/machine learning in past projects

• Advanced knowledge of process control schemes for evaluating sensors and optimizing line performance

EEO Statement
 

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, or disability status.

PepsiCo is an Equal Opportunity Employer: Female / Minority / Disability / Protected Veteran / Sexual Orientation / Gender Identity

If you'd like more information about your EEO rights as an applicant under the law, please download the available EEO is the Law & EEO is the Law Supplement documents. View PepsiCo EEO Policy.