Sr. Product Development Scientist

Job Overview

The Sr. Product Development Scientist leads the development and commercialization of innovative products across a growing portfolio of coffee and powdered beverages. Positioned within R&D, this role works cross-functionally with internal teams and closely partners with external ingredient suppliers.

This position requires a strong foundation in ingredient functionality and product development, paired with a deep understanding of consumer needs and preferences. The ideal candidate brings creativity and technical expertise to ideate, develop, and refine products for both in-home and away-from-home occasions.

A passion for new product development is essential, along with intellectual curiosity, hands‑on problem‑solving skills, and the ability to thrive in a fast‑paced, lab‑driven environment. The Sr. Product Development Scientist combines innovation, technical rigor, and agility to drive impactful product launches.

• Leads bench‑top experiments, formula calculations, and develops products for a variety of KDP brands and products for at‑home and away‑from‑home occasions.
• Interprets test results, writes technical reports, and effectively communicates information within the organization.
• Verifies formula accuracy, completes formula documentation, and leads organization of pilot trials and scale up.
• Fully understands R&D functions and project management process to lead the commercialization of ideas to launch.
• Partners with various functions of R&D (Sensory, Ingredients, Nutrition, Regulatory, Flavor Technology, Chemistry, Process Engineering, and Technical Services).
• Influences and actively participates in Marketing and Consumer Research programs to gain consumer insights and translate into key product concepts.
• Manages multiple projects and represents R&D in cross‑functional teams consisting of members across various departments of KDP (R&D, Marketing, Supply Chain, Sales).
• Delivers updates on projects within the business to key stakeholders and cross‑functional peers.
• Develop the ability to effectively communicate technical information to senior leadership.
• Proactively identifies opportunities for improvement within function.
• Maintains accurate and detailed record of laboratory work.
• Work appropriately and safely in a laboratory environment.
• Use formulation software to document lab work and formulas.
• Demonstrate flexibility and resilience in adapting to changing business needs and priorities.
• Ability to earn trust, maintain positive and professional relationships, and strengthen our culture of inclusion.
• A successful candidate will exhibit a passion for innovation, is results driven and takes ownership of work.
• Provide mentorship and guidance to junior team members to support their professional growth and enhance team performance.

• Salary range: $76,400 – $115,000.
• Actual placement within the compensation range may vary depending on experience, skills, and other factors.
• Benefits, subject to election and eligibility:
  Medical, Dental, Vision, Disability, Paid Time Off (including paid parental leave, vacation, and sick time), 401k with company match, Tuition Reimbursement, and Mileage Reimbursement.
• Annual bonus based on performance and eligibility.

• B.S. in Food Science, Chemistry, Biology, or Chemical Engineering. Advanced degree is a plus.
• 7+ years of experience in a related function within food/beverage (R&D, Quality), CPG, and/or commensurate advanced education.
• Experience with Coffee and Powder Beverages a plus.
• Ability to travel as required (Up to 25%).

• Highly collaborative, self‑motivated, takes initiative; positively influences others.
• Strong technical and executional skills.
• Strong communication and presentation skills.
• Strong leadership skills.
• Change readiness, resiliency and flexibility to thrive in a constantly changing and fast‑moving organization.

Keurig Dr Pepper (Nasdaq: KDP) is a leading beverage company with more than 150 owned, licensed and partner brands that meet a wide range of needs and occasions. Our North American refreshment beverage business holds leadership positions across carbonated soft drinks, water, juice…