Sr. Product Development Scientist

JonnyPops • Plymouth, MN

1d • $90,000 - $135,000

About The Position

The Sr. Product Development Scientist has the primary duty of executing all Research & Development activities and ensuring that finished goods meet stated product quality specifications. Testing duties include microbiological, physical, chemical and sensory. This role also works closely with the Quality and Supply Chain teams and assists in ensure all R&D activities are represented in Food Safety Programs that are defined, executed and meet regulatory guidelines.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Food Engineering, Dairy Science, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Microbiology or related field
• Entry level to 3-5 years of experience with product development or R&D in the food industry
• Proven experience with formulation development and commercialization.
• Strong understanding of sensory science, flavor systems, and food ingredients.
• Proficient in using Microsoft Excel, Word and PowerPoint.
• Able to perform basic mathematical calculations and analyses.
• Ability to interpret lab results.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to convey technical information clearly to both technical and non-technical audiences.
• Naturally curious, with an appreciation for ambiguity and the ability to embrace the “test and learn” mentality in pursuit of continuous improvement.
• Alignment to our mission to spread kindness – JonnyPops is a kindness-based company
• Versatility, flexibility, and a willingness to work within constantly changing priorities with enthusiasm.

Nice To Haves

• Experience with nutritional labelling (TraceGains NutriCalc) preferred

Responsibilities

• Develop and refine product formulations to meet product standards and operational targets.
• Lead benchtop development and prototype iterations.
• Identify and execute cost-saving opportunities without compromising product quality, flavor, or functionality.
• Apply strong knowledge of sensory science and flavor development to guide product design.
• Conduct and interpret sensory trials.
• Provide detailed tasting notes to guide product improvement and ensure alignment with brand standards and consumer expectations.
• Create, maintain, and track detailed product briefs, ensuring all stakeholders are aligned throughout the development process.
• Act as the product expert and R&D representative within project teams.
• Collaborate closely with Marketing, Operations, Quality, Procurement, and Regulatory functions Manage technical relationships with ingredient and packaging suppliers.
• Facilitate collaboration between external R&D teams and internal stakeholders.
• Stay current with trends, technologies, and scientific advancements in food science, flavor chemistry, and formulation techniques.
• Share knowledge with peers and stakeholders.
• Monitor and report on production adherence to R&D developed process and specifications.
• Support QA with technical knowledge related to ingredients and finished products.
• Maintain R&D Lab cleanliness and inventory.
• Responsible for ensuring that R&D activities are done in accordance with GMPs, and that food safety and quality in production is not compromised.
• Collaborate with QA team to review and approve suppliers.
• Collaborate with QA team to approve compliant nutritional labelling and packaging.
• Assist Quality and Production teams in root cause analysis and corrective actions.

Benefits

• Medical/Health Insurance
• Dental Insurance
• Vision Insurance
• HSA
• FSA
• DCFSA
• Life & AD&D Insurance
• Short & Long Term Disability
• FTO/PTO
• EAP Programs
• Paid Holidays
• Employee Referral Program
• Sick & Safe Leave
• 401k
• Company Sponsored Meal Plan
• Hired candidates may be eligible to receive additional compensation in the form of bonuses and/or commissions.

What This Job Offers

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