SUMMARY
The position of Product Development Specialist is involved in the creation and refinement of new food products, ensuring they meet quality, safety, and nutritional standards as directed by the Product Development Supervisor and working with production personnel in the commercialization of new products as they transition to production.
PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES
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Conducting research and development to create new food products. Formulate to cost, nutritional, and product claim targets
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Testing prototypes, competitive products, and production samples.
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Collaborating with cross-functional teams to define product scope, features, and timeline. Drive communication to the internal team and external partners around product development.
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Develop and refine processes for scaling bench level work to full industrial production.
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Documenting ingredients, formulations, processes, and test results. Use to yield both in process and finish good specifications
- Participating in sensory evaluations and product trials.
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Ensuring compliance with industry regulations and standards.
Respond to internal technical questions from production and sales. Trouble shoot production problems when requested
Skill Requirements
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Bachelor's degree in food science, nutrition, chemistry, or a related field.
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0-5 years of related experience in food product development or research.
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Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
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Excellent communication and teamwork abilities.
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Knowledge of food technology, production processes, and market trends.
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Proficiency in data analysis and reporting.
BACK-UP
In the event of absence, this position would be covered by another product development specialist (if the position is staffed), or the product development supervisor.
WORKING CONDITIONS
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Combined general office and factory working conditions, approximately 50% office and 50% factory:
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General Office Environment - Work is sedentary in nature but may require standing and walking for up to 20% of the time. The working environment is generally favorable. Light and temperature are adequate, and there are no hazardous or unpleasant conditions caused by noise, dust, heat, etc. Work is generally performed with standard office equipment available.
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Factory Environment – Work in the factory requires standing and/or walking 100% of the time. The working environment is generally favorable, with some areas of the factory requiring the use of various types of personal protective equipment (PPE) such as ear plugs, safety glasses, respirators, fireproof sleeves, etc, to protect against noise, dust, and open flames.
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Work during early mornings, evenings and weekends will be required
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Weights up to 50 lbs. are encountered
TRAINING REQUIREMENTS
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GMP’s Training
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Allergen Training
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All GNC Safety Training Required
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ALL GNC Production as Required
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HACCP Training
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All Food Safety Training
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All GNC HR Policies