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The Product Development Specialist is responsible for researching, developing, and improving food products from concept through commercialization. This role combines culinary innovation, food science knowledge, and cross-functional collaboration to create high-quality, market-ready products that meet consumer expectations, regulatory standards, and company objectives. The specialist will work closely with marketing, quality assurance, supply chain, and production teams to ensure successful product launches and continuous product improvement.
Key Responsibilities
Product Development & Innovation
- Develop new food products and reformulate existing products based on market trends, customer feedback, and business goals.
- Conduct bench-top experiments and pilot-scale trials to test formulations, ingredients, and processes.
- Expand current recipes and product lines.
- Translate product concepts into scalable formulas and manufacturing processes.
- Evaluate ingredients for functionality, cost, and supply availability.
Testing & Optimization
- Perform sensory evaluations, shelf-life testing, and product performance analysis.
- Troubleshoot formulation and process issues during product development and scale-up.
- Maintain detailed documentation of formulations, test results, and product specifications.
Cross-Functional Collaboration
- Partner with marketing teams to align product development with consumer insights and brand strategy.
- Create and develop an innovative team.
- Work with operations and manufacturing teams to ensure smooth product scale-up and production.
- Coordinate with quality assurance to ensure compliance with food safety and regulatory requirements.
Regulatory & Compliance
- Ensure product formulations comply with food safety standards, labeling requirements, and regulatory guidelines (FDA, USDA, etc.).
- Prepare technical documentation including ingredient statements, nutritional data, and product specifications.
Project Management
- Manage multiple product development projects simultaneously while meeting deadlines and budgets.
- Support product launch activities including production trials, packaging validation, and process optimization.
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Food Science, Food Technology, Chemistry, Nutrition, Culinary Arts or related field.
- Passion for Food!! Curiosity and Creativity required!!
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience with sensory evaluation and consumer testing.
- Knowledge of nutritional analysis and food labeling regulations.
Key Skills
- Product formulation and experimentation
- Analytical and problem-solving skills
- Project management and organization
- Cross-functional communication and collaboration
- Attention to detail and documentation
- Creativity and innovation in food development
Working Conditions
- Work is typically performed in a laboratory, test kitchen, pilot plant, or production facility.
- May require standing for extended periods and handling food ingredients and equipment.
- Occasional travel to manufacturing facilities, suppliers, or industry events may be required.
