New food technology and changing operating requirements are transforming the way food and beverage companies work, as well as the employee skills they require. Following are just a few of the emerging and in-demand jobs now available in food and beverage manufacturing.
What They Do: Mechatronics focuses on the design and assembly of computer-controlled integrated systems involving mechanical, electrical and electronic equipment, including robotics, automation, machine vision, Internet of Things equipment, and controls.
Necessary Skills & Education: STEM education, mechanical engineering degree, knowledge of computer programming, creative thinking, solutions oriented.
What They Do: An account manager working in the food industry oversees sales activities for products and/or categories, develops relationships with new and existing customers (including grocery and foodservice customers), analyzes sales numbers, creates strategies designed to grow sales, and generates new sales opportunities.
Necessary Skills & Education: Good communication, sales, written, presentation and negotiation skills, experience with customer relationship management (CRM) software, administrative skills, strong understanding of the product.
Business Development Manager
What They Do: A business development manager working in the food industry helps a company grow its business in terms of new clients, relationships, regions, and/or products. They conduct market and sales research, forecast revenue and create strategic plans for growth either for the company as a whole or for specific areas of the business such as marketing or sales.
Necessary Skills & Education: A business, management, marketing, accounting or finance degree, strong understanding of the food industry, good communication, leadership, planning, research, written, organizational and presentation skills.