R&D Manager

Smithfield Foods • Kansas City, MO

1d • Hybrid

About The Position

As a Research & Development Manager, you will lead the design, development, and implementation of cutting-edge research and development initiatives that drive business success. Leveraging both existing and emerging technologies, you will transform ideas into market-ready solutions that enhance competitive differentiation and fuel strategic growth. Collaboration is at the heart of this role—building strong cross-functional relationships ensures seamless planning and execution of initiatives. Your ability to identify and cultivate consumer-valued innovations will shape the future of the company, driving both tactical advancements and long-term business expansion.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited four-year college or university in Food Science or related field and 5+ years’ relevant plant manufacturing experience in the meat processing industry, or equivalent combination of education and experience required.
• 2+ years of demonstrated experience in team management/development or project leadership, required.
• Experience with multifaceted management of multiple projects and areas of responsibility.
• Able to work independently to ensure completion of R&D strategic goals.
• Must be able to identify consumer insights and translate them into finished products.
• Proven track record with working effectively as a business leader and cross functional teams.
• Able to multi-task, think creatively, and work as part of a team.
• Proficient with Microsoft Office Word, PowerPoint and Excel.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, both verbal and written.
• Excellent attention to detail and accuracy.
• Must have the ability to complete required applicable forms in English, which requires the ability to read and write in English.
• Ability to work well with others in fast paced, dynamic environment.
• Ability to be respectful, approachable and team oriented while building strong working relationships and a positive work environment.

Nice To Haves

• Master's Degree, preferred.

Responsibilities

• Ensure that all new or updated product requests from Sales are processed efficiently, following Sales Management prioritization.
• Review customer-requested product developments and internal process improvements while maintaining regular communication with Business, Operations, Sales, Marketing, and Quality Assurance to provide updates and gather feedback to meet customer expectations.
• Coordinate with Labeling, QA, and Food Safety Departments to ensure accuracy in product information while arranging timely project updates with Business, Sales and Operations.
• Provide technical expertise to Lab personnel and customers as needed and collaborate with Purchasing to approve new ingredients and supplies.
• Collaborate with Production to enhance processes for improved yields and reduced labor costs while proactively preventing product or process failures through strategic planning, process controls, and training.
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date files, including labels, specifications, and SQF requirements, to ensure compliance and operational efficiency.
• Drive a positive employee experience through leadership by way of employee development and coaching.

Benefits

• Robust, flexible and affordable benefit plans and programs
• Medical plans with out-of-pocket costs, on average, 20 percent less than plans offered by other employers
• Be Well programs offer tools and resources to enhance your quality of life, at no additional cost
• Support for elective surgeries, weight loss, mental health, cancer, kidney disease, diabetes, smoking cessation, asthma, maternity management
• Comprehensive training and professional development programs
• LinkedIn Learning access on-demand courses, professional certificates, and skill-based training
• Tuition assistance covering English language learning, high school completion, and degree programs
• Leadership development initiatives
• Smithfield Scholarship Program for employees’ children

What This Job Offers

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