Research And Development Scientist

Arway–Long Grove Confections was formed through the union of two trusted confectionery companies, combining decades of expertise, quality, and tradition. As a family-owned business with roots dating back to 1950, we take pride in crafting high-quality confections and delivering exceptional service to customers nationwide. Today, we continue to build on our shared legacy — with a passion for excellence and a focus on the future.The R&D Scientist supports the development, testing, innovation, renovation, and optimization of confectionery products by developing formulas, conducting bench-top experiments, evaluating ingredient functionality, and assisting in scale-up trials. This role collaborates closely with sales, customers, operations, purchasing and quality teams to document formulations, run sensory evaluations, and ensure prototypes meet taste, texture, and stability targets. Responsibilities include maintaining accurate lab records, preparing samples of newly developed products, performing analytical tests, analyzing data to recommend next steps, troubleshooting formula or process issues, and contributing to continuous improvement initiatives that enhance product quality, cost efficiency, and manufacturing performance.Develop, optimize, and scale formulations for chocolate confections, caramel, toffee, panned confections, roasted nut products, and other confectionsProduce samples of newly developed products for presentations to customersConduct benchtop, pilot, and full-scale production trials to ensure product consistency, quality, and manufacturabilitySupport the research and application of new manufacturing technologies to improve efficiency and product innovationTroubleshoot production issues such as fat/sugar bloom, crystallization defects, stickiness, uneven coatings, and off flavorsCollaborate with cross-functional teams including Sales, Quality Assurance, Production Management, Marketing, and Supply Chain to ensure successful product launchesConduct shelf-life studies, analyzing sensory, physical, and chemical stability over timeMaintain detailed technical documentation including formulations, SOPs, trial reports, and specificationsSupport continuous improvement initiatives to increase yield, reduce waste, improve sustainability, and enhance efficiencyTrain production teams on new products, processing techniques, quality attributes, and best practices for confectionery manufacturingAssist in sourcing new ingredients as necessary for new projects, product optimization, dual sourcing, vendor replacement, etc.Evaluate new ingredients, suppliers, and processing technologiesPerform ERP system adjustment of Bills of Materials (BOMs) and assembly instructions (product narrations)Demonstrate effective communication and problem-solving skillsRespond to inquiries for information, direction, and/or referrals from internal and external sources in a timely mannerIdentify potential opportunities for cost savings.Special projects and/or other duties as assigned Report all food safety issues and/or suspicious activityEXPERIENCE & QUALIFICATIONSBachelor’s degree in food science, related field, or applicable work experience3 – 5 years of experience in a food development roleProficiency with Microsoft Office suite and advanced skills in Microsoft Excel and PowerPointProven ability to take products from concept through commercializationFamiliarity with food safety and quality systems (HACCP, GMP, SQF, etc.)Familiarity with food safety regulations and industry compliance standardsA passion for food, ingredients, and confectionery innovationAbility to prioritize and manage multiple projects and priorities in a fast-paced environmentProven ability to collaborate with, motivate, and direct cross-functional teams to achieve commercialization objectivesExceptional communication skills, both written and verbalExcellent strategic business acumen and problem-solving capabilitiesProven ability to exercise discretion with confidential informationSolutions-oriented with analytical thinking skillsADDITIONAL DESIRED SKILLS AND CHARACTERISTICSBilingual in Spanish and English a plus, but not mandatoryAppreciates and exemplifies Arway-Long Grove Confections’ family valuesIs self-aware, empathetic, and willing to listen and learnAppreciates diversity and actively works to foster a culture of inclusivenessPossesses a common-sense approach to business issues—must be proactive and adaptableGoal-driven, confident self-starter with a willingness to continually embrace professional development and passion to excelChange agent with energy, passion, and enthusiasmTeam player, willing to help where needed