Research and Development Specialist

USANA Health Sciences • Salt Lake City, UT

10d • Onsite

About The Position

We are looking for an experienced research professional to join our team as a Research & Development Specialist. In this role, you will lead complex, high-impact projects—from formulation and product development through testing and technical evaluation owning studies, experimental trials, and validation programs from concept through commercialization. You'll serve as the primary technical authority in cross-functional meetings and technical reviews, mentor others, and help shape USANA's product and process innovation strategy.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Chemistry, Biology, Nutrition, or a related scientific field
• 5+ years of relevant experience in research and development, product development, or a related technical role, including experience leading complex or strategic projects
• Advanced knowledge of quality and food safety standards applicable to the industry
• Demonstrated track record of leading cross-functional initiatives and mentoring junior technical staff

Nice To Haves

• An advanced degree (Master's or higher) in Food Science, Chemistry, Biology, Nutrition, or a related scientific field

Responsibilities

• Lead and own complex, high-impact projects and programs, ensuring quality, accuracy, and scientific rigor of outcomes
• Design and direct large-scale or strategic studies, experimental trials, and validation programs, often spanning multiple product lines, categories, or business units
• Serve as the primary technical authority and subject-matter expert in cross-functional project meetings, technical reviews, and stakeholder discussions
• Establish standards for documentation practices and ensure accurate, complete, and audit-ready records across R&D projects
• Communicate effectively with senior stakeholders and cross-functional leaders to resolve complex technical issues and align R&D initiatives with broader business goals
• Mentor and develop R&D Specialist I and II staff, providing technical guidance, coaching, and career development support, while working independently with minimal to no oversight
• Set direction for the development, implementation, and continuous improvement of R&D systems, processes, and best practices
• Ensure organization-wide adherence to regulatory, safety, and company policies, and lead efforts to address systemic gaps or risks
• Champion innovation and drive significant process or product improvements, sharing knowledge and best practices across the organization
• Represent R&D in cross-functional, interdepartmental, and external initiatives, including engagement with vendors, partners, or regulatory bodies as needed

Benefits

• Health, Dental, Vision, Life and Disability Insurance
• On-site medical and mental health clinic for you and your dependents
• Flexible paid time off, including sick time, vacation, holidays, family hours, and floating holidays
• Paid parental leave for both primary and secondary caregivers
• 401k match and profit-sharing bonus
• Chiropractor visits, massages, fitness classes, and full-service gym
• Free and discounted USANA products
• Tuition reimbursement, mentorship opportunities, and learning and development licenses

What This Job Offers

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