Research And Development Manager
Research & Development ManagerMorton Grove, IL(hybrid)SummaryThe Research & Development Manager or Food Scientist we're looking for leads product innovation, process development and commercialization initiatives across the organization. This role serves as the bridge between product development, manufacturing operations, quality assurance, procurement, and commercial teams to ensure new and existing products meet quality, regulatory, operational, and financial objectives.The role is responsible for driving innovation, optimizing formulas and processes, and ensuring successful scale-up from benchtop development through full commercial production.Essential Job Duties and ResponsibilitiesLead development of new products, product enhancements, and line extensions aligned with business strategyConduct bench trials, pilot trials, and plant trials for new formulations and process improvementsOptimize ingredient functionality, sensory profiles, nutritional targets, and product stabilityEvaluate emerging ingredients, technologies, and market trends to support innovation pipelineMaintain organized records of formulas, specifications, test results, and development documentationPartner with marketing and commercial teams on product concepts, claims substantiation, and competitive benchmarkingAssist cross-functional commercialization projects from concept to launchDevelop project timelines, milestones, and risk mitigation plansCoordinate internal resources and external suppliers to meet launch deadlinesSupport packaging transitions, formula changes, and process modificationsEnsure compliance with U.S. Food and Drug Administration regulations, labeling requirements, and food safety standardsPartner with QA and Regulatory teams on ingredient approvals, specifications, claims, and documentationSupport customer audits, regulatory inspections, and third-party certifications as neededMaintain compliance with GMP, HACCP, SQF, and internal quality standardsCollaborate with suppliers on ingredient performance, troubleshooting, and alternative sourcingEvaluate raw material changes for quality, functionality, and operational impactSupport cost-saving initiatives through formula optimization and ingredient substitutionsManage and develop R&D or technical services staff, interns, or project specialistsFoster a culture of innovation, accountability, and continuous improvementProvide technical training to operations, QA, and cross-functional teamsConduct behavior in compliance with Lifeway Employee PolicyPerform additional duties as assignedQualification and Education RequirementsBachelor’s degree in food science, Dairy Science, Microbiology, Chemical Engineering, or related scientific discipline required; Master’s degree preferred5+ years of progressive experience in food manufacturing, R&D, technical services, or process developmentExperience with cultured dairy, beverages, fermentation systems, or refrigerated foods strongly preferredExperience in scale-up, commercialization, and plant troubleshooting requiredPrior leadership or people management experience preferredStrong knowledge of food processing, ingredient functionality, and product developmentUnderstanding of fermentation systems, microbial stability, shelf-life studies, and sensory analysisWorking knowledge of food labeling, regulatory compliance, and documentation systemsStrong project management and cross-functional leadership skillsAbility to analyze technical data and convert findings into practical business solutions.Strong communication and presentation skillsProficiency in Microsoft Excel, Microsoft PowerPoint, ERP systems, and product lifecycle documentation toolsPreferred Experience:Experience with cultured dairy products, probiotics, kefir, yogurt, cheese, or functional beveragesExperience supporting multi-site manufacturing operationsFamiliarity with continuous improvement methodologies such as Lean Six SigmaTravel Requirements: Up to 10-15% travel to manufacturing facilities, suppliers, co-packers, or industry events as needed