Research & Development Project Manager

OSI Group•Aurora, IL

17h•$104,648 - $156,972•Hybrid

About The Position

This role is responsible for supporting the organization’s product development strategy by managing all phases of product development projects for key customer accounts. Key area of expertise in various food categories, including dairy, cheese, sauce, vegetable and/or meat, to provide ingredient, processing, and related technical knowledge to support innovative solutions to meet customer needs.

Requirements

5-10 years of experience in related field is preferred.
In developing and commercializing of food products.
Excellent proficiency in all Microsoft Office Suite Products.
Ability to communicate clearly and effectively, both verbally and in writing, to influence business decisions.
Strong knowledge of ingredient and functionality, product formulas, processing and manufacturing.
Familiar with in USDA/FDA regulations and standards.
Experience with new product development processes and protocols.
Demonstrated creative thinking and problem-solving skills.
Ability to work successfully independently and under limited supervision.
Hand on scientist that is able to manage multiple projects in a fast paced environment.
Excellent organization and time management skills.
Proficient in use of both on-line work systems and product development software tools.

Nice To Haves

Hands-on experience in sous vide or dry sausage/meat processing is a plus.
Advanced degree is a plus.

Responsibilities

Develop and manage new product development projects through product development and the commercialization process.
Identify opportunities to drive top line business growth via new and improved technologies, processes, or ingredients.
Partners with other cross functional departments (Sales, Manufacturing, Culinary, Engineering, Quality, Operation Excellence) to provide technical leadership as a member of Product Development Team.
Provides technical and scientific expertise to other R&D members, in the hands-on development of new products, quality improvement, ingredient substitution, line extensions and any applied technology.
Manage and perform product development in bench, pilot and plant operations levels meeting the product development needs of the projects.
Provide technical guidance and solutions during cross functional team meetings bringing projects to commercialization.
Pro-actively recommend new concepts or prototypes in line with latest product trends.
Provide reports to business teams regarding both tactical plans and achievements.
This role has the responsibility to understand and places in practice appropriate safety procedures. This responsibility is achieved through education, training, use of protective equipment (as applicable) and by following safety policies, regulations, standards, and laws.
Perform other duties as assigned.