Food Innovation Specialist

We are partnering with a growing food manufacturing organization to identify a highly driven Senior Food Scientist to support product innovation, formulation, and continuous improvement initiatives across a dynamic portfolio of food products.This role is ideal for someone passionate about food science, product development, and innovation within a fast-paced manufacturing environment. The selected candidate will collaborate cross-functionally with operations, quality, procurement, and commercial teams to develop and optimize products that align with quality, cost, and production goals.Key ResponsibilitiesLead product development and reformulation initiatives from concept through commercialization.Develop and optimize formulations, ingredients, and manufacturing processes to improve product quality, consistency, shelf life, and cost efficiency.Conduct bench trials, plant trials, sensory evaluations, and product validations.Partner with cross-functional teams including Quality Assurance, Operations, Supply Chain, and Marketing to ensure successful product launches and continuous improvement.Analyze product performance, market trends, and competitor products to identify innovation opportunities.Support scale-up activities and ensure products are manufacturable within operational capabilities.Maintain accurate documentation related to formulations, specifications, testing, and process validations.Collaborate with suppliers to evaluate ingredients, troubleshoot challenges, and identify alternative solutions when needed.Ensure compliance with food safety, regulatory, and quality standards throughout all stages of development.Manage project timelines and communicate progress effectively with key stakeholders.QualificationsBachelor's degree in Food Science, Food Engineering, Chemistry, or a related field.4+ years of experience in product development, R&D, or food manufacturing environments.Strong understanding of food formulation, ingredient functionality, food processing, and quality systems.Experience working within manufacturing plants and production environments.Strong project management, analytical, and problem-solving skills.Excellent communication and collaboration abilities.Self-starter with a curious and innovative mindset.Bilingual English/Spanish is a plus.Ability to travel up to 30% as required.Preferred BackgroundExperience within large-scale food manufacturing or consumer packaged goods (CPG) environments.Exposure to process optimization, commercialization, or sensory science.Passion for food innovation and emerging industry trends.

Created: 2026-05-09