Sr Scientist Research and Development

You will play a critical role in fueling KFC US’ pipeline of finger lickin’ good innovations by helping develop new menu items that deliver crave-worthy, guest-delighting experiences. Your mission is to support and lead portions of the innovation process—from early concept development to testing and validation—by contributing technical expertise, coordinating cross-functional input, and advancing new products toward commercialization. You will help ensure that every new menu item meets KFC’s high standards for taste, quality, operational ease, and brand relevance.

• Lead portions of the new product development process, including concept development, benchtop prototyping, ingredient exploration, and formulation refinement.
• Conduct product evaluations, sensory testing, and in-restaurant validations to assess consumer acceptance, operational feasibility, and product performance.
• Partner with suppliers to support the development of new ingredients and components, review technical data, and help refine specifications required for scale-up and commercialization.
• Analyze consumer insights, operational data, and cost implications to guide product decisions and recommend improvements that enhance appeal, feasibility, and value.
• Collaborate cross-functionally (Marketing, Operations, QA, Supply Chain/RSCS) and deliver clear reports, technical documents, and presentations that communicate progress, findings, and recommendations.
• Monitor food, flavor, and QSR innovation trends to identify whitespace opportunities and inspire forward-thinking product concepts.
• Represent the FIT team in innovation and commercialization meetings by providing product development expertise, sharing updates, identifying risks, and contributing solutions.
• Own and independently manage defined NPD projects from concept through testing phases, ensuring timely progress, alignment to brand strategy, and readiness for scale-up.

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited 4-year university, preferably in Food Science or related field.

• 4+ years of relevant work experience required with Bachelor’s.
• Experience in New Product Development position in the food industry.

• Excellent oral and written communication skills to engage and align cross-functional stakeholders; ability to present effectively.
• Strong analytical skills to interpret data and form action‑able recommendations.
• Proven project management capabilities, including driving great outcomes in a fast-paced environment.

• Passion for creating craveable, high-quality food experiences.
• Curious, resourceful, and energized by innovation and experimentation.
• Comfortable navigating ambiguity and iterating quickly to move ideas forward.
• Collaborative team player who inspires others and contributes positively to team culture.
• Resilient and persistent in driving development work through technical and operational challenges.

Salary Range: $105,030 to $110,865 annually + bonus eligibility.

This is the expected salary range for this position. Ultimately, in determining pay, we'll consider the successful candidate’s location, experience, and other job-related factors.