Senior Product Developer

Senior Product Developer, Research & Development Overview

A fast-growing, innovation-driven food company is seeking a Senior Product Developer to join its Research & Development team. This role plays a critical part in driving product innovation, supporting commercialization, and ensuring operational excellence across a diverse and expanding portfolio of food products. The position requires strong technical expertise, collaboration across functions, and the ability to lead projects from concept through full-scale production.

The Senior Product Developer will lead and support the development of new products and processes, working cross-functionally with teams including Marketing, Operations, Quality, and Supply Chain. The senior will manage the full product lifecycle—from early-stage formulation and bench-top experimentation through pilot trials and large-scale manufacturing. The role also includes providing technical support to ongoing operations and contributing to continuous improvement initiatives.

This is a hands‑on role ideal for a technically proficient food scientist who thrives in a fast‑paced, dynamic environment and can balance innovation with execution.

• Lead product and process development activities from concept through commercialization, ensuring scalability and cost efficiency
• Design and execute experimental trials to optimize formulations, ingredients, and processing conditions
• Support scale‑up activities including pilot plant trials, commissioning, and transition into manufacturing environments
• Collaborate with cross‑functional teams to ensure alignment between technical development and business objectives
• Drive continuous improvement efforts to enhance product quality, yield, and operational efficiency
• Provide real‑time technical support and troubleshooting for manufacturing processes
• Develop and maintain technical documentation, including formulations, specifications, and test protocols
• Perform data analysis, root cause investigations, and implement corrective actions using scientific methodologies
• Mentor junior team members and contribute to knowledge sharing within the R&D team
• Manage multiple projects simultaneously while maintaining attention to detail and meeting deadlines

• Bachelor's degree with several years of relevant experience, or a Master's degree with demonstrated experience in food product development
• Strong background in food science, including formulation and processing
• Experience with sensory evaluation, analytical testing, and product optimization
• Working knowledge of food safety systems, quality standards, and regulatory requirements
• Proven ability to support manufacturing operations and continuous improvement initiatives
• Strong project management and communication skills, with the ability to influence cross‑functional stakeholders
• Highly organized, detail‑oriented, and adaptable in a fast‑paced environment

• Strong problem‑solving mindset with a curiosity‑driven approach to innovation
• Ability to navigate ambiguity and operate effectively in evolving conditions
• Collaborative team player with leadership potential and mentoring capabilities
• Passion for developing high‑quality, consumer‑focused food products

This role operates in both office/laboratory and manufacturing environments, requiring direct engagement with production processes. The ideal candidate will be comfortable working closely with cross‑functional teams and participating in on‑site trials and plant activities.