Research And Development Specialist

The Research and Development (R&D) Specialist is responsible for driving innovation, supporting product development, and improving existing products, processes, or technologies, for both food and beverage innovation. This role collaborates cross-functionally to bring new ideas from concept through testing, validation, and implementation, ensuring alignment with chain concepts, business goals, quality standards, and customer needs.

• Conduct research to identify new product opportunities, materials, and technologies
• Design, execute, and analyze experiments, prototypes, or pilot programs
• Develop and refine formulations, processes, or product designs
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams including operations, marketing, quality, and supply chain
• Evaluate product performance and recommend improvements based on data and feedback
• Ensure compliance with regulatory, safety, and quality standards
• Maintain accurate documentation of research, testing, and development activities
• Monitor industry trends, competitor products, and emerging technologies
• Support scale‑up efforts from lab or concept to phase to production
• Assist in cost optimization and efficiency improvements

• Effective problem‑solving, analytical thinking, and organizational skills.
• Effective project management skills, including planning, executing, and delivering projects on time and within budget.
• Ability to communicate effectively with stakeholders and cross‑functional teams.

• Bachelor's degree in relevant field preferred, but not required
• 2 to 5 years of experience in research and development or product innovation
• Experience in the QSR or chain concepts restaurant industry is required
• Strong analytical, problem‑solving and critical thinking skills
• Experience with experimental design and data analysis
• Proficiency in relevant tools, software, or laboratory/technical equipment
• Broad understanding of food safety and quality is required.
• Strong analytical and data interpretation skills
• Proficient in MS Office Suite and related analytical tools is required

• Prolonged periods of standing or sitting may be required.
• Ability to travel up to 50% of the time is required.

• Company offers competitive salaries, bonuses, medical/dental/vision insurance, prescription drug coverage, 401(k) plan (after 12 months of employment), sick pay, PTO and holiday pay, profit sharing plan (after 90 days of employment), annual food & beverage allowance (prorated for hire date), and company discounts of 30%.

A job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of all activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of the employee. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change, or new ones may be assigned at any time with or without notice.

All candidate information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.