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Job Purpose

Lead product development projects from concept through commercialization with limited supervision. Develop and test formulas and processes for new products, quality improvements, and cost reductions.

Essential Functions

+ Plan and execute experiments using established laboratory/pilot lab/plant methodology, ensuring all experiments meet FDA food manufacturing guidelines; keep accurate and detailed records and documentation on lab work and data analysis

+ Interpret experiment results and translate them into actionable recommendations and business solutions

+ Lead/support the planning, execution, and reporting of plant trials and product validations for new products and reformulations, concentrating on the science of formulation and ingredients

+ Lead product development projects from concept through commercialization, effectively managing time and delivering projects on time and in full

+ Create and present project contingency plans

+ Serve as a subject matter expert to colleagues and management

+ Oversee the work of interns and technicians/technologists, providing guidance and assigning daily activities as needed

+ Work with Marketing, exploring trends and connections between consumer needs to guide research programs

+ Participate in the review of Rise product performance versus competitors

+ Bring innovative ideas to support strategic plans and enable R&D to apply this knowledge to assigned projects

+ Demonstrate strong teamwork and cross-functional relationships, leveraging those partnerships to innovate, resolve concerns, and meet timelines

+ Begin to develop an external technology network and knowledge base with ingredient and equipment vendors, utilizing relationships and knowledge to influence technical decisions

+ Maintain ingredient inventory and lot code tracking

+ Work with internal resources to quickly communicate needed information for recalls

+ Safely operate, clean, and maintain labware and equipment used for testing, adhering to sanitation requirements in the handling and preparation of food products

+ Write, review, and issue product, ingredient, and process specifications to support all project work using the Specification system

+ Support food safety program, quality standards, and legality of manufactured products

+ Perform other job-related duties as assigned

Qualifications (Education, Experience, Competencies)

+ Bachelor’s degree in food science or related field

+ 5+ years in R&D product development, food and/or beverage industry

+ In-depth knowledge of all stages of the product development life cycle and product development methodologies

+ Comprehensive understanding of manufacturing equipment, their processes, and capabilities

+ In-depth knowledge of food ingredient functionality, product formulations, and modification techniques

+ Strong passion for science, creative thinking, and product development

+ Excellent cross-functional and peer relationship building skills

+ Proficient computer skills including Microsoft Office programs: Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint

+ Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills

+ Detail oriented with strong problem-solving and 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