Sr. Product Development Scientist

Full-Time IN HOUSEHR Contact:HR ManagerWork hours:40 hours/week business daysPosition Back Up:R&D ManagerReview(s):AnnuallyReports to:R&D ManagerPosition Summary: The Senior R&D Food Scientist is a key driver of business growth, acting as a strategic partner to our customers and a vital bridge between customer needs and our manufacturing capabilities. This role leads product development projects from concept through commercialization and beyond, with a sharp focus on creating practical, profitable solutions that align with our production strengths. The successful candidate will take ownership of their product lines, build collaborative customer relationships, and actively identify opportunities for process improvement and cost optimization on the plant floor.For this roll we are looking For Food scientists with Experience working in Sweet Product manufacturing such as; Icings, Caramels, Chocolates, Variegates, or Bakery Fillings. Savory Experience is also highly desirable.Job Responsibilities:Product Development & CommercializationLead the full product development cycle, from benchtop formulation and sample creation to plant trials and successful commercialization and beyondLeverages understanding of ingredients, products, processes and packaging to support development of new product platforms or match existing productsCreate and maintain accurate product specifications, formulas, and processing instructions.Sets up new items for commercialization through internal ERP software.Assists with maintaining a well-organized and clean lab environmentAdheres to Strict Food safety and Food Quality Standards during the Development ProcessCustomer and Sales PartnershipServe as the primary technical point of contact for key customers, fostering strong, collaborative partnerships.Partner with the Sales team to understand customer needs, present new product concepts, and showcase our technical capabilities to win new business.Communicate project updates, technical challenges, and solutions clearly and professionally to both internal and external stakeholders.Production Support & Process ImprovementAct as a hands-on R&D resource for the Production team, providing direct support during trials, new product launches, and troubleshooting existing production challenges.Identify and champion opportunities for process improvement, cost reduction, and efficiency gains by leveraging a deep understanding of our plant's capabilities.Evaluate and qualify alternate raw material suppliers to drive cost savings and supply chain security without compromising quality.Schedule and implement R&D trials in the plant, ensuring clear objectives and effective coordination with Production, Purchasing, and Quality teams.Core CompetenciesBusiness Acumen: A strong understanding of product costing, ingredient functionality, and manufacturing processesProblem-Solving: Excellent troubleshooting skills, with a hands-on approach to solving challenges on the production floor.Customer Focus: Proven ability to work directly with customers, understand their needs, and build trust as a technical expert.Collaboration: Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to work effectively across departments (Sales, Production, QA, Purchasing).Adaptability: Thrives in a dynamic environment where priorities can shift between innovation, product matching, and production support.Comfort within ERPs, CRM Software, and any formulation softwareCulinary training is highly beneficial.Project, Time, and Priority Management is an essential SkillEducation/Experience/Skills:4 Year College Degree Food Science preferred. Culinary training very helpful.Minimum 6 years? experience in a manufacturing/product development environment.Demonstrated success in commercializing new food productsStrong interpersonal and communication skillsAbility to work in food allergen areas (Nuts, Dairy, Egg, etc.)Knowledgeability of food safety standards and credentials such as HACCP, PCQI, or Better Process Control