We are seeking an experienced and innovative Food Product Development Scientist to lead the design and development low-acid aseptic products alongside our co-manufacturing partners. This role involves working on products from initial concept through commercialization, with a focus on delivering high-quality, consumer-centric solutions in the beverage industry. The ideal candidate will collaborate with cross-functional teams, including marketing, R&D, and manufacturing, to ensure successful product launches that align with business goals.
Primary Purpose and Functions
The Food Product Development Scientist will:
Develop products from bench scale through production trial.
Take ownership of all R&D aspects of product development pipelines, timelines, and project priorities.
Ensure proper experimental designs, stability studies, and sensory protocols are implemented to create consumer-centric products.
Collaborate with cross-functional teams to communicate project details and experimental results effectively.
Support production runs at manufacturing sites and ensure seamless commercialization.
Additionally, the person will work on processing or formulation related researches leading to potential new plant-based materials
Essential Functions and Responsibilities
Product Development and Commercialization:
Lead the development of food, beverage, and dietary supplement products from concept to market launch.
Conduct benchtop experiments, prototype development, and iterative testing to refine formulations.
Develop and implement appropriate experimental designs, stability studies, and sensory tests to ensure product quality and consumer satisfaction.
Knowledge of food safety principles and systems.
Working knowledge of regulatory procedures and requirements including FDA, USDA, etc.
Consumer-Centric Innovation:
Utilize sensory protocols to ensure products meet consumer expectations.
Ensure all products align with brand objectives and competitive market positioning.
Cross-Functional Collaboration:
Partner with marketing, brand teams, and other departments to align product development with business goals.
Effectively communicate project timelines, experimental designs, and results to cross-functional teams.
Collaborate with manufacturing teams to support production runs and troubleshoot any issues during commercialization.
Continuous Improvement:
Proactively identify problems and provide solutions to improve processes and product outcomes.
Take opportunities to develop new skills and adapt to evolving roles within the organization.
Research and Development
Support on Steuben-GNS research and development effort in creating new plant-based ingredients.
Knowledge, Skills, and Experience
Education: Bachelor's or Master's Degree in Food Science or a related scientific field preferred.
Experience: 0-2 years of experience in product development within the CPG, B2B, or dietary supplement industries.
Technical Skills:
Strong knowledge of product development for food, beverage, dietary supplements, or pharmaceutical products.
Experience with sensory testing protocols and stage-gate processes.
Proficient in experimental design, stability studies, and data analysis.
Collaboration Skills: Proven ability to work with cross-functional teams and communicate effectively across departments.
Competencies
People Development:
Open, curious, and willing to learn new skills.
Takes initiative to develop individual competencies and align with evolving organizational roles.
Business Planning:
Understands key business operations that impact the team and role.
Effectively manages time and priorities to meet project deadlines.
Results Orientation:
Delivers on commitments with a focus on quality and process.
Supports team objectives beyond routine responsibilities.
Problem Solving:
Identifies problems proactively and provides actionable solutions.
Continuously seeks opportunities for improvement within the scope of the role.
Collaboration:
Communicates effectively with team members, leadership, and internal customers.
Open to feedback and fosters a collaborative work environment.
Why Join Us?
This is an exciting opportunity to shape the future of food and plant-based innovation. As a Food Product Development Scientist, you will play a critical role in creating high-quality, consumer-focused products that align with our mission of delivering excellence and driving business growth.
If you are passionate about product development, consumer-driven innovation, and working in a dynamic, collaborative environment, we encourage you to apply!