Job Purpose

Develop new product offerings and modify current products by utilizing existing technology, under general supervision. Work from bench top to production scale, maintaining project experimentation documentation and setting finished product specifications.

Essential Functions

• Execute product development, product renovation, ingredient screening, competitive assessments, product quality investigations, shelf life studies, sample production, and other tasks as needed
• Collaborate with Sales, Marketing, and other cross-functional partners in product development efforts to create high-quality, innovative products that appeal to customers
• Assist in implementing projects involving plant transfers, line builds, operational efficiency, product improvement, cost reduction, GMP compliance, food safety, and employee safety
• Organize and complete shelf life evaluations including sensory assessments as needed
• Compile and analyze data to summarize results from personal and team analyses
• Engage with Operations, Engineering, and Quality Assurance to ensure all product formulations, processes, and specifications meet defined standards
• Support new item setups including plant tests and pilot runs
• Document and draw conclusions/next steps from experimental results or production trials
• Safely operate, clean, and maintain labware and equipment used for testing, adhering to sanitation requirements in the handling and preparation of food products
• Work closely with and provide technical support to other departments within the company including Quality Assurance, Operations, Purchasing, Customer Service, and Sales
• Further knowledge in new materials, processes, and equipment to enhance the technical understanding of the R&D team
• Comply with all food safety requirements, training, policies, and procedures
• Perform other job-related duties as assigned

Qualifications (Education, Experience, Competencies)

• Bachelor’s degree in food science or related field with 1-3 years of food science experience
• Strong passion for science and creative problem solving
• Good knowledge of product development process and methodology
• Good peer relationship building skills
• Proficient computer skills including Microsoft Office programs: Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint
• Strong written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills
• Detail oriented with strong analytical skills
• Self-motivated with the ability to work independently, organize and prioritize, show flexibility, and multi-task to execute simultaneous projects and activities to meet objectives and deadlines
• Ability to thrive in a fast-moving and constantly evolving high-growth environment