Product Development Scientist

Product Development Scientist page is loaded## Product Development Scientist locations:
St. Charles, MOtime type:
Full time posted on:
Posted Todayjob requisition :
REQ
107286

This opportunity is located within our
** AFB International
** business, the global science and technology leader in pet food palatability. We develop and produce a full range of liquid and dry palatability enhancers using high-quality ingredients proven to optimize companion animal response and consumption.  to learn more.
** Job Description
**** Product Development Scientist
** AFB International is a global leader in science and technology for pet food palatability. We develop and manufacture a full portfolio of liquid and dry palatability enhancers that help create better-tasting dog and cat foods, treats, and supplements.

As a trusted partner to pet food manufacturers worldwide, we combine deep scientific expertise with innovation to meet the evolving needs of pets and their owners. AFB International is part of Ensign-Bickford Industries, a privately owned, high-technology organization with a global footprint spanning North America, Europe, Latin America, Mexico, Australia, and China.

Join our global Science & Technology team within Research & Development, where long-term thinking meets cutting-edge innovation. As a Product Development Scientist, you will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of pet food palatability by developing next-generation products from concept through commercialization.

This role reports to the North American Head of Product and Process Sciences and offers the opportunity to directly influence product innovation, technology scale-up, and business growth.
*
* Responsibilities include:

*** Lead the end-to-end development of innovative palatant products—from concept to market launch
* Design and execute experiments across bench, pilot, and production scales
* Apply food science and processing expertise, especially in thermal processing, to create high-quality products
* Drive product pipelines for both liquid and dry palatants
* Collaborate cross-functionally with product, process, and manufacturing teams
* Provide technical support during production scale-up and ongoing operations
* Analyze experimental data and translate findings into actionable business insights
* Document research and maintain accurate technical records
* Serve as a subject matter expert, supporting supply chain and troubleshooting challenges
* Communicate key findings through reports and presentations to stakeholders
*** What You Bring
***** Education & Experience
*** Bachelor’s degree (minimum) in Food Science, Chemistry, Food Processing, or related field + 5+ years of experience
* OR Master’s degree + 3+ years of relevant R&D experience
* OR PhD + at least 1 year of industry experience in product development
* Experience in food or pet food R&D and scale-up required
** Technical Expertise
*** Strong foundation in food science, formulation, and processing principles
* Proven experience in product development from concept to commercialization
* Hands-on experience in formulation, pilot trials, and scale-up
* Knowledge of thermal processing techniques preferred
* Familiarity with manufacturing practices and quality standards
*** What Sets You Apart
**** A data-driven mindset with strong analytical and problem-solving skills
* Ability to balance technical depth with business impact
* Strong collaboration and communication skills across diverse teams
* Proven ability to manage multiple projects in a fast-paced environment
* A proactive, ownership-driven approach with a passion for innovation
* Comfort navigating ambiguity and evolving priorities
* Work on cutting-edge science in a growing global industry
* Be part of a collaborative, innovation-driven R&D culture
* Make a real impact on products enjoyed by pets worldwide
* Opportunities for professional growth within a global organization

If you're passionate about food science, innovation, and bringing new products to life, this is your chance to make a meaningful impact in a dynamic and purpose-driven environment.
* AFB International
* * is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE). Qualified applicants are considered for employment without regard to race, religion, color, sex, age, disability, sexual orientation, genetic information, national origin, or veteran status.
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