Research & Development Manager

Job Type: Full-time Description The R&D Manager is responsible for leading the R&D team in new product development, testing, commercialization, least-cost formulation, and process improvement activities. The R&D Manager will work closely with Sales, Customers, Operations, Quality Assurance/Food Safety, Supply Chain, and Finance on product-development projects from initial customer concept through full-scale commercialization. The role will also focus on optimizing existing products to improve product performance and provide cost savings while maintaining food safety and regulatory compliance. This is a hands-on leadership position requiring strong technical knowledge of meat science, ingredient functionality, further-processing methods, and commercial food manufacturing. Key Responsibilities New Product Development & Formulation Lead new product development from initial concept through commercialization.Develop and modify formulations based on customer requirements, product specifications, processing capabilities, nutritional targets, and cost objectives.Develop customer samples and prototypes for evaluation and approval.Develop products that achieve desired flavor, texture, appearance, cook characteristics, yield, and shelf life.Lead the transition of products from laboratory or pilot development into full-scale commercial production.Ensure formulas, specifications, processing instructions, and product standards are accurately documented. Food Safety, Quality & Regulatory Compliance Work with Quality Assurance/Food Safety to ensure products meet regulatory and customer requirements.Assist with product specifications, ingredient statements, nutritional information, allergen declarations, processing requirements, and labeling.Ensure appropriate testing and validation for new products and formulation/process changes.Maintain accurate R&D records and documentation. Product Improvement & Cost Reduction Work with Operations and Procurement to optimize raw material utilization while maintaining quality and customer specifications.Identify opportunities to reduce formulation costs without negatively affecting quality, food safety, or customer expectations.Assist in establishing yield standards for new and existing products.Participate in continuous improvement initiatives involving yield, waste, rework, throughput, and product consistency. R&D Leadership Lead and develop R&D personnel, including R&D Technicians and Product Developers.Establish project priorities based on customer and business needs.Assign projects and monitor progress against established timelines.Establish consistent R&D procedures and documentation practices.Maintain confidentiality of proprietary formulas, customer information, and intellectual property. Education & Experience Required Bachelor's degree in Meat Science, Food Science, Food Technology, or a related technical discipline.3-5 years of progressive R&D/product development experience.Strong analytical, problem-solving, organizational, and communication skills. Preferred Experience with meat, poultry, or protein further processing.Previous R&D leadership or management experience.Experience in USDA-regulated manufacturing facilities.HACCP certification. Knowledge, Skills & Abilities Strong knowledge of meat science, ingredient functionality, commercial meat processing equipment, and processing practices.Experience with commercial product development and commercialization.Ability to manage multiple projects and competing priorities.Strong communication skills with production employees, leadership, customers, suppliers, and technical professionals.Ability to work independently and lead cross-functional projects.Hands-on experience conducting plant trials and scaling products from bench or pilot development into full production.Strong attention to detail and documentation.Strong understanding of yield and the financial impact of formulations and processing decisions.