Senior Product Developer
Senior Product Developer, Research \& Development Overview A 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 Summary The 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 execution Key Responsibilities * Lead product and process development activities from concept through commercialization, ensuring scalability and cost efficiency * Design and execute experimental trials to optimize formulations, ingredients, and processing conditions * Support scale-up activities including pilot plant trials, commissioning, and transition into manufacturing environments * Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure alignment between technical development and business objectives * Drive continuous improvement efforts to enhance product quality, yield, and operational efficiency * Provide real-time technical support and troubleshooting for manufacturing processes * Develop and maintain technical documentation, including formulations, specifications, and test protocols * Perform data analysis, root cause investigations, and implement corrective actions using scientific methodologies * Mentor junior team members and contribute to knowledge sharing within the R\&D team * Manage multiple projects simultaneously while maintaining attention to detail and meeting deadlines Qualifications * Bachelor's degree with several years of relevant experience, or a Master's degree with demonstrated experience in food product development * Strong background in food science, including formulation and processing * Experience with sensory evaluation, analytical testing, and product optimization * Working knowledge of food safety systems, quality standards, and regulatory requirements * Proven ability to support manufacturing operations and continuous improvement initiatives * Strong project management and communication skills, with the ability to influence cross-functional stakeholders * Highly organized, detail-oriented, and adaptable in a fast-paced environment Desired Attributes * Strong problem-solving mindset with a curiosity-driven approach to innovation * Ability to navigate ambiguity and operate effectively in evolving conditions * Collaborative team player with leadership potential and mentoring capabilities * Passion for developing high-quality, consumer-focused food products Work Environment This 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.