Research and Development Specialist

Description Who We Are Looking For We are looking for an experienced research professional to join our team as a Research & Development Specialist. In this mid-level role, you will lead complex, high-impact projects, from formulation and product development through testing and technical evaluation, owning studies, experimental trials, and validation programs from concept through commercialization. You will also manage our food piloting lab, from benchtop prototypes to pilot-scale production trials.

You’ll serve as the primary technical authority in cross-functional meetings and technical reviews, mentor others, and help shape USANA’s product and process innovation strategy.

What You Will Do as USANA’s Research & Development Specialist Lead and own complex, high-impact projects and programs, ensuring quality, accuracy, and scientific rigor of outcomes

Design and direct large-scale or strategic studies, experimental trials, and validation programs, often spanning multiple product lines, categories, or business units

Manage the food piloting lab, including benchtop prototypes of bars and powdered beverages, pilot trials on production equipment, basic testing (e.g., water activity, texture analysis), and lab equipment and ingredient upkeep

Serve as the primary technical authority and subject-matter expert in cross-functional project meetings, technical reviews, and stakeholder discussions

Establish standards for documentation practices and ensure accurate, complete, and audit-ready records across R&D projects

Communicate effectively with senior stakeholders and cross-functional leaders to resolve complex technical issues and align R&D initiatives with broader business goals

Mentor and develop R&D staff, providing technical guidance, coaching, and career development support, while working independently with minimal to no oversight

Set direction for the development, implementation, and continuous improvement of R&D systems, processes, and best practices

Ensure organization-wide adherence to regulatory, safety, and company policies, and lead efforts to address systemic gaps or risks

Champion innovation and drive significant process or product improvements, sharing knowledge and best practices across the organization

Represent R&D in cross-functional, interdepartmental, and external initiatives, including engagement with vendors, partners, or regulatory bodies as needed

Background and Skills You Will Need Bachelor’s degree in food science, chemistry, biology, nutrition, or a related scientific field

Five plus years of relevant experience in research and development, product development, or a related technical role, including experience leading complex or strategic projects

Experience with food manufacturing

Advanced knowledge of quality and food safety standards applicable to the industry

Demonstrated track record of leading cross-functional initiatives and mentoring junior technical staff

What Will Make You Stand Out An advanced degree in food science, chemistry, biology, nutrition, or a related scientific field

This is a full-time in-office role located in Salt Lake City. No remote/hybrid schedule available. Who We Are Since 1992, USANA has put science first with our focus on in-house research and manufacturing based in Salt Lake City, Utah to drive the creation of supplements that give your body the exact nutrition it needs to thrive. It’s why millions across the globe choose USANA as the nutritional provider for themselves and their loved ones.

Today we are a billion-dollar company, thanks in part to more than 1,700 employees based around the world.

Our Culture Excellence, Health, Integrity, and Community are core to our business. It is our commitment to always strive to be open-minded listeners, hold…