Product Development Scientist

GoodPop • New York, NY

3d • Onsite

About The Position

The Product Development Scientist will support product development and day-to-day R&D operations, working closely with the R&D Director to bring products from concept to commercialization. This role is highly hands-on and spans benchtop formulation, sample preparation, product testing, technical documentation, and scale-up support at co-manufacturing partners. Success in this role requires strong technical execution, attention to detail, and the ability to manage multiple work streams across development, documentation, and operations.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Food Chemistry, Chemistry, Biology, or Nutrition
• 2-4 years of experience in the food industry
• Hands-on experience with benchtop and pilot-scale product development
• Strong attention to detail and organization
• Analytical mindset - comfortable with formula math, unit conversions, % solids, Brix
• Proficiency with Microsoft Excel
• Clear written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to work on-site in a lab environment and remain on feet for extended periods

Nice To Haves

• Experience in frozen desserts, ice cream, or frozen novelty manufacturing
• Experience with nutrition analysis software (Tech Wizard, Genesis R&D, or equivalent)
• Familiarity with ERP systems, particularly Microsoft Dynamics Business Central
• Experience supporting trials at contract manufacturers or co-packing operations
• Familiarity with FDA food labeling requirements (21 CFR)

Responsibilities

• Develop new formulas, formula improvements, and product renovations at benchtop and pilot scale
• Produce samples for internal evaluation, retailer presentations, and product testing
• Design, run, and document shelf-life, stability, and product performance studies
• Evaluate new and alternative ingredients through comparison samples, sensory analysis, and written findings
• Plan, support, and attend trial production at co-manufacturing facilities
• Provide on-site technical support during scale-up and commercialization
• Maintain bills of materials (BOMs), formulas, and batch documentation
• Develop nutrition facts panels and ingredient statements for new and revised products
• Write and maintain finished product specifications and internal ingredient specifications
• Manage supplier and co-manufacturer documentation (specs, COAs, certifications, batch sheets)
• Support certification programs (Organic, Non-GMO Project Verified, Kosher)
• Help maintain R&D lab operations including inventory, sanitation, and equipment care
• Partner with Operations, Quality & Compliance, Procurement, and Marketing on R&D initiatives

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level