Job Description

The R&D Manager plays a key role in driving product development and scaling up production, while managing day-to-day lab activities related to research and development. This position is responsible for evaluating current and alternative food ingredients, creating new product recipes, and conducting sensory evaluations to ensure products meet customer needs and expectations. The role also collaborates with cross-functional teams to address technical challenges, support product innovation, and periodically assist the Quality Assurance (QA) team.

Roles and Responsibilities

Key Tasks:

• Lead new product development initiatives, from research and ingredient sourcing to lab prototyping, sample preparation, costing, trial runs, and creating product SOPs and specifications.
• Develop and refine recipe formulations for mass production.
• Conduct daily analytical testing of products to establish QC specification parameters.
• Support cross-functional teams and manage product cuttings, sensory evaluations, and reformulations of existing products.
• Assist production operations by providing guidance on formulation and proper manufacturing procedures.
• Act as an agent of continuous improvement, driving results and assisting in root cause investigations for production challenges.
• Stay updated on culinary trends and introduce innovative products to meet evolving customer needs.
• Ensure adherence to USDA regulations, HACCP, GMPs, and SSOPs.
• Work closely with Sales, Production, QA, and other departments to develop products that align with business goals and customer expectations.
• Perform other duties as assigned by management.

Qualifications and Education Requirements

• Minimum of 2 years of R&D and food manufacturing experience.
• Bachelor’s degree preferred; alternatively, an associate degree in culinary or food science plus 4 years of relevant experience.
• Proficient in computer applications such as word processing, spreadsheets, and databases (experience with Sage is a plus).
• Basic to moderate knowledge of food regulations, with an emphasis on nutritional labeling, food ingredients, and Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs).
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Independent, with excellent managerial, analytical, and organizational abilities.
• Strong attention to detail, problem-solving capabilities, and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment to meet goals.

Working Conditions

• The role involves standing, walking, reaching, climbing, balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, or crawling.
• Exposure to moving mechanical parts and vehicles, as well as varying weather conditions.
• Occasional exposure to hot and humid temperatures in the plant; floors may be wet and slippery, so proper footwear is required.
• Must be able to push up to 50 lbs.
• Must maintain situational awareness and be vigilant of surroundings at all times.

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