R&D Manager

Magic Spoon•New York, NY

3d•Hybrid

About The Position

Magic Spoon reimagines your childhood breakfasts favorites with more protein, less sugar, and more fun. Since launching in 2019, we've brought our unbelievably tasty cereal to over one million customers online and over 20,000 stores nationwide. With our recently launched Protein Oatmeal and Protein Granola we're continuing to find new ways to make mornings magical - all made possible by our incredible team. The Research and Development Manager will lead and manage all aspects of the technical pipeline from concept through commercialization, ensuring proper execution. This role will report into our Senior Director, Product and will oversee the work and development of a Food Scientist, and their direct report (Associate Food Scientist). This is a full time, in-person/hybrid role (Tues, Weds, Thurs in office) based in Tribeca, NYC, with additional days in office as needed.

Requirements

6-10+ years of product development experience in food, CPG, or related industries
Proven experience leading formulation, scale‑up, and commercialization with co‑manufacturers
Strong knowledge of food science, ingredient functionality, processing, and regulatory requirements
Experience managing and developing technical teams
Deep understanding of manufacturing processes, cost drivers, and quality systems
Experience with PLM systems, formulation tools (e.g., Genesis), and supplier documentation
Ability to balance consumer expectations, cost targets, and operational realities
Strong problem‑solving skills with the ability to navigate ambiguity and technical complexity
Highly collaborative, with the ability to influence cross‑functionally
Organized, proactive, and comfortable owning multiple work streams at once
Hands‑on leader who can switch between strategic thinking and tactical execution
Travel required for the role ~20-50%

Responsibilities

Support innovation and renovation pipeline by overseeing scientist’s lab work, scale up trials, factory 1st productions, and post launch updates
Stay abreast of competitive products to ensure we stay competitive, review gaps in market, and stay on top of customer insights and trends
Evaluate ideas for new innovation using industry knowledge, external partners, rapid prototyping, etc.
Manage team of food scientist’s workload and professional development
Collaborates cross functionally to ensure alignment of product development goals
Create in-budget and in-specification products that meet consumer expectations
Work internally and externally to develop and execute against product testing plans
Ensure proper oversight of nutrition fact panel generation and ingredient declarations for all new and updated products
Travel to factories to support start up of new products and equipment as needed
Problem solve and offer solutions to technical and business issues as they arise based on knowledge of manufacturing and formulation
Support operations team in cost savings and efficiency measures from scoping to first production
Identify and action opportunities for process improvements and efficiencies within the product department