Senior Product Developer
Senior Product Developer, Research & Development
Overview
A fast-growing, innovation-driven food company is seeking a Senior Product Developer to join its Research & Development team. This role plays a critical part in driving product innovation, supporting commercialization, and ensuring operational excellence across a diverse and expanding portfolio of food products. The position requires strong technical expertise, collaboration across functions, and the ability to lead projects from concept through full-scale production.
Position Summary
The Senior Product Developer will lead and support the development of new products and processes, working cross-functionally with teams including Marketing, Operations, Quality, and Supply Chain. This individual will manage the full product lifecycle-from early-stage formulation and bench-top experimentation through pilot trials and large-scale manufacturing. The role also includes providing technical support to ongoing operations and contributing to continuous improvement initiatives.
This is a hands-on role ideal for a technically proficient food scientist who thrives in a fast-paced, dynamic environment and can balance innovation with execution
Key Responsibilities
- Lead product and process development activities from concept through commercialization, ensuring scalability and cost efficiency
- Design and execute experimental trials to optimize formulations, ingredients, and processing conditions
- Support scale-up activities including pilot plant trials, commissioning, and transition into manufacturing environments
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure alignment between technical development and business objectives
- Drive continuous improvement efforts to enhance product quality, yield, and operational efficiency
- Provide real-time technical support and troubleshooting for manufacturing processes
- Develop and maintain technical documentation, including formulations, specifications, and test protocols
- Perform data analysis, root cause investigations, and implement corrective actions using scientific methodologies
- Mentor junior team members and contribute to knowledge sharing within the R&D team
- Manage multiple projects simultaneously while maintaining attention to detail and meeting deadlines
Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree with several years of relevant experience, or a Master's degree with demonstrated experience in food product development
- Strong background in food science, including formulation and processing
- Experience with sensory evaluation, analytical testing, and product optimization
- Working knowledge of food safety systems, quality standards, and regulatory requirements
- Proven ability to support manufacturing operations and continuous improvement initiatives
- Strong project management and communication skills, with the ability to influence cross-functional stakeholders
- Highly organized, detail-oriented, and adaptable in a fast-paced environment
Desired Attributes
- Strong problem-solving mindset with a curiosity-driven approach to innovation
- Ability to navigate ambiguity and operate effectively in evolving conditions
- Collaborative team player with leadership potential and mentoring capabilities
- Passion for developing high-quality, consumer-focused food products
Work Environment
This role operates in both office/laboratory and manufacturing environments, requiring direct engagement with production processes. The ideal candidate will be comfortable working closely with cross-functional teams and participating in on-site trials and plant activities.
FAQs
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