Lead R&D Product Developer

Key Responsibilities

• Project Leadership: Lead R&D projects from conception to completion, ensuring they are completed on time and within cost/quality restrictions.
• Research and Development: Conduct research to develop new products or improve existing ones. This may involve designing experiments, organizing sample collection efforts, analyzing data, and making recommendations based on the findings.
• Technical Expertise: Provide technical expertise in your field of specialization, guiding the team in problem-solving and decision-making. Understand the use of strategic ingredients, products, processes, and packages to support the development of new products.
• Collaboration: Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including product development, supply chain, quality, and manufacturing, to ensure that R&D projects align with company goals.
• Scale-up and Commercialization: Scale the products from the R&D stage to commercial scale. Lead trial runs and sample production of new products. Oversee initial full-scale production of new products.
• Documentation: Prepare and maintain detailed documentation of experiments, findings, and methodologies.
• Regulatory Compliance: Ensure that R&D activities comply with relevant regulations and standards.
• Mentorship: Manage and mentor the team of scientists, providing guidance and support in their professional development.

Qualifications

• Master's in Food Science-related degree with 3+ years of product development experience OR Bachelor's in Food Science-related degree with 4+ years of product development experience.
• Strong leadership and project management skills.
• Excellent communication and teamwork abilities.
• Proven track record of innovation and problem-solving.
• Should be a self-starter.

Key Skills

• Technical proficiency in your field of expertise.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communication skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a team environment.
• Ability to work in an ERP system and/or Management systems.

Physical Requirements

• Must be able to read text and instructions in English.
• Spanish fluency is preferable but not essential.
• Stands most of the day during trials and productions.
• Bend/Stoop/Position oneself to move crates of raw materials.
• Works in a cold room up to approximately 35% of the time.
• Must wear Personal Protective Equipment.

Benefits

• We offer a competitive compensation and benefits package designed to support the health, well-being, and professional growth of our employees, including:
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• Voluntary short-term disability, long-term disability, and life insurance.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP).
• Paid holidays and PTO.
• Continuous learning stipends, including educational budgets and time off for professional development.
• Access to a 401(k) retirement savings plan.
• A culture built on trust, collaboration, and opportunities for growth.