Job Description
Our client, a growing innovative food & beverage manufacturer, is experiencing significant growth, and with that comes exciting opportunities. We’re seeking an R&D Product Development Manager to join their dynamic team!
Job Title: R&D Product Development Manager
Location: Los Angeles County , CA
Job type: Contract-hire
Pay rate: $45- $56/ hr.
Position Summary:
We are seeking a dynamic and experienced R&D Product Development Manager to lead our product development efforts from concept to commercialization. This role is ideal for a critical thinker with a strong background in food science and a passion for developing innovative flavor and beverage solutions. The ideal candidate will supervise a team of chemists and lab technicians while ensuring all products meet customer requirements, cost targets, and regulatory standards.
Key Responsibilities:
- Oversee and manage all product development projects within the R&D department.
- Lead the formulation and development of products according to customer or internal specifications.
- Supervise, mentor, and provide technical guidance to R&D chemists and lab technicians.
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams including Quality Control, Analytical, Production, and Sales.
- Evaluate the technical feasibility of new products based on equipment, technology, and production capabilities.
- Conduct cost analysis and determine suggested selling prices for developed products.
- Ensure thorough documentation of master formulas and compounding instructions.
- Approve product specifications and ensure compliance with SQF (Safe Quality Food) standards.
- Communicate directly with customers to gather requirements, present prototypes, and provide technical support.
- Support scale-up processes and monitor initial production runs to ensure consistency and quality.
- Participate in special projects and other duties as assigned.
Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree in Food Science, Nutrition, or a related field.
- Minimum of 4 years of supervisory or management experience in an R&D environment.
- Strong taste and aroma acuity for product evaluation and formulation.
- Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite; solid math skills (algebra level).
- Strong written and verbal communication skills in English.
This job description is a complete list of all desired skills, but not all are required. We strongly encourage candidates who have some of the skills to apply. We look forward to a conversation to learn more about you!