Senior Product Developer

Senior Product Developer, Research & Development OverviewA 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 SummaryThe 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 executionKey ResponsibilitiesLead product and process development activities from concept through commercialization, ensuring scalability and cost efficiencyDesign and execute experimental trials to optimize formulations, ingredients, and processing conditionsSupport scale-up activities including pilot plant trials, commissioning, and transition into manufacturing environmentsCollaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure alignment between technical development and business objectivesDrive continuous improvement efforts to enhance product quality, yield, and operational efficiencyProvide real-time technical support and troubleshooting for manufacturing processesDevelop and maintain technical documentation, including formulations, specifications, and test protocolsPerform data analysis, root cause investigations, and implement corrective actions using scientific methodologiesMentor junior team members and contribute to knowledge sharing within the R&D teamManage multiple projects simultaneously while maintaining attention to detail and meeting deadlinesQualificationsBachelor's degree with several years of relevant experience, or a Master's degree with demonstrated experience in food product developmentStrong background in food science, including formulation and processingExperience with sensory evaluation, analytical testing, and product optimizationWorking knowledge of food safety systems, quality standards, and regulatory requirementsProven ability to support manufacturing operations and continuous improvement initiativesStrong project management and communication skills, with the ability to influence cross-functional stakeholdersHighly organized, detail-oriented, and adaptable in a fast-paced environment Desired AttributesStrong problem-solving mindset with a curiosity-driven approach to innovationAbility to navigate ambiguity and operate effectively in evolving conditionsCollaborative team player with leadership potential and mentoring capabilities Passion for developing high-quality, consumer-focused food productsWork EnvironmentThis 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.