R&D Senior Product Developer

The Research and Development Senior Product Developer creates and develops new products and product lines incorporating existing and new ingredients, processes, and technologies.

This individual is responsible for recipe, formula management and development, ensuring that all new materials comply with applicable legislation and are seamlessly incorporated into existing systems and programs.

Additionally, this individual must have a strong skill set / background in a manufacturing environment and strong troubleshooting ability.

Summary of Essential Job Functions

• Executes product development projects from initial concept to commercial launch in a dynamic, high-paced environment.
• Work closely with the team to develop and test new and existing ingredients, develop, and finalize recipes and pass the sensory approval process.
• Has a deep understanding of current and future food and industry trends and applies this knowledge in the development and planning process.
• Conduct required bench top and / or pilot plant experiments in the development of new products and / or product renovations and / or new processes for the experimental plan, conduct experiments and produce documentation.
• Leadership role in pilot and plant trials.
• Comprehensive understanding of new product requirements and manufacturing equipment and able to troubleshoot with Production and Maintenance teams.
• Able to clearly communicate technical information with all levels of the organization.
• Prepare samples for customers and internal presentation.
• Coordinate distribution of samples. Utilize programs (Genesis, Excel, Skada) along with internal tools in product development process (costing, Ingredient Declarations, Nutritional Panels, Mixing formulas etc.).
• Develop product specifications, standard operating procedures, and product formulation.
• Work with Purchasing and Suppliers to source and test ingredients.
• Source alternate suppliers of existing raw materials.
• Conduct research and testing of new ingredients and processing techniques.
• Participate in the sensory evaluation of new, existing and competitor products.
• Maintains project files to ensure collection and transfer of learning and knowledge.
• Consult technical resources (literature, technical papers, academia, suppliers) to further product knowledge and apply the learning to execute projects.
• Complies with all plant safety and food safety / GMP rules.
• Performs other duties as directed.

Position Requirements

• Bachelor’s / master’s degree in food science and technology or a related field.
• A minimum of 4 years of experience in product development or related field. Strong knowledge of manufacturing environment.
• Ice cream or dairy experience required.
• High level of understanding of ingredients and formula portfolios.
• Analytical ability; methodical / critical thinker and problem solver; attention to detail.
• Highly organized, able to prioritize multiple projects effectively and work independently in a fast-paced environment.
• Excellent oral / written communication skills, interpersonal skills, and relationship management.
• Leadership skill to ensure cross functional team alignments and timely delivery on related tasks and trainings.
• Require advanced knowledge of applicable government regulations, GMPs and allergens.
• Valid driver’s license and a car available.

Working Conditions

Required work in office, manufacturing facilities, pilot plant environments locally and at vendor or customer facilities as required.

On call availability 24 / 7 if and as required by operations. Occasional travel is required.

What We Offer :

• Competitive wages
• Opportunity to grow with the company
• Excellent benefit package
• Generous performance-based bonuses
• Excellent pension package
• Active social committee
• Employee assistance program
• Group home and auto insurance
• Uniforms and boots are provided
• Work in the state-of-the-art manufacturing facility
• Job stability (no layoffs)
• Subsidized lunches at our onsite Cafeteria
• FREE ICE CREAM!!
• We enjoy what we do, and we do it best

Disclaimer

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work to be performed. They are not to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required.

All personnel may be required to perform duties outside of their normal responsibilities from time to time and as needed.