Dillon Belanger
Rancho Santa Margarita,CA
Summary
Innovative and detail-oriented Food Science graduate student with hands-on experience in product development, sensory evaluation, and food processing technologies. Skilled in translating scientific principles into market-ready food products, with a strong foundation in ingredient functionality, flavor chemistry, and formulation optimization. Experienced in collaborating on industry projects using pilot-scale processing equipment and conducting sensory testing to guide product improvements.
Overview
3
3
years of professional experience
Work History
Product Development Intern at Taco Bell
Dairy Management Inc.
Irvine, California
06.2025 - 08.2025
- Assisted with R&D projects, contributing to innovative product development.
- Developed dairy-based sauce from scratch, ensuring high quality and taste.
- Conducted sensory tests to evaluate product flavor and texture.
- Supported commercialization efforts through product tastings and evaluations.
Graduate Assistant in Food Processing Lab
Chapman University
Orange, CA
01.2024 - 05.2025
- Hands-on experience in assisting with industry projects, specializing in the use of MicroThermics equipment and spray drying for flavor development.
- Adept at supporting research and product developments
- Skilled in applying technical knowledge to optimize processes and contribute to successful outcomes in food science and product formulation.
QA/QC Associate
Village Green Foods Inc
Irvine, CA
01.2023 - 01.2024
- Experience in quality assurance, ensuring product safety, compliance with industry regulations, and maintaining high standards in food production.
- Proficient in conducting inspections, audits, and implementing quality control protocols to identify and resolve potential issues.
- Strong understanding of HACCP, GMP, and other regulatory frameworks, with a proven ability to work closely with cross-functional teams to uphold quality and safety standards.
Education
Master's Degree - Food Science
Chapman University
Orange, CA05.2026
Bachelor of Arts - Culinary Science and Product Development
Johnson & Wales University
Providence, RI05.2023
Skills
- MicroThermics
- Spray drying
- Product formulation
- Problem solving
- Collaboration and communication
- Project management
Awards
- National Association of Flavors and Food Ingredient Systems Scholarship from Patrick Imburgia, 09/01/23
- Dean's List Student, 2019 - 2022
Timeline
Product Development Intern at Taco Bell
Dairy Management Inc.
06.2025 - 08.2025
Graduate Assistant in Food Processing Lab
Chapman University
01.2024 - 05.2025
QA/QC Associate
Village Green Foods Inc
01.2023 - 01.2024
Master's Degree - Food Science
Chapman University
Bachelor of Arts - Culinary Science and Product Development
Johnson & Wales University
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