Product Development Specialist

Lehi Valley Trading Company•Mesa, AZ

1d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Product Development Specialist is responsible for developing and commercializing innovative food products from concept through production. This role works closely with Operations, Quality, Marketing, and Supply Chain to formulate, test, and scale new products while ensuring they meet quality, food safety, and customer expectations. The ideal candidate is creative, detail-oriented, and passionate about developing high-quality snack food products.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Food Engineering, Chemistry, or a related technical field, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
Approximately four (4) years of experience in food product development, preferably within the confectionery or snack food industry.
Experience developing products from concept through commercialization.
Knowledge of food processing equipment and manufacturing operations.
Ability to scale recipes from bench-top or pilot batches to full-scale production.
Strong project management and organizational skills.
Self-motivated with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.
Proficiency in Microsoft Outlook, Word, and Excel.
Valid Food Handler Card or the ability to obtain one upon hire.
Ability to work flexible hours, including occasional evenings or weekends, to support plant trials and production schedules.

Nice To Haves

Experience with confectionery, popcorn, granola, snack foods, or related products.
Knowledge of Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs), HACCP, and food safety standards.
Experience working in SQF or GFSI-certified manufacturing environments.
Familiarity with ingredient functionality, nutritional labeling, and regulatory compliance.

Responsibilities

Ensure maintenance of efficient and effecting reporting and information for activities within the group
Plan, develop, and manage assigned product development projects from concept through commercialization.
Create and formulate new products, including popcorn, Corn puffs, and other snack food items.
Develop and refine product formulations to achieve desired taste, texture, appearance, shelf life, and cost objectives.
Convert laboratory and pilot-scale recipes into full-scale manufacturing processes.
Conduct product testing, evaluations, and sensory analysis.
Coordinate plant trials and production test runs, documenting results and recommending process improvements.
Collaborate with Manufacturing to ensure successful product launches and efficient production processes.
Partner with the Marketing team to support new product launches and product enhancements.
Source and evaluate ingredients and packaging materials in collaboration with approved suppliers.
Ensure all products comply with food safety, quality, regulatory, and labeling requirements.
Maintain accurate documentation, formulations, specifications, and project records.
Monitor project timelines and communicate progress to cross-functional teams.
Support continuous improvement initiatives related to product quality, efficiency, and cost reduction.
Perform other duties as assigned.