Research and Development Scientist

1. Lead product development projects from concept through commercialization, as well as product improvements according to business needs.
2. Oversee and lead multiple R&D projects simultaneously, ensuring accurate and timely completion of requests and projects. 
3. Identify and test new products, flavors, processes, ingredients, and technologies.
4. Support manufacturing plant operations in process improvements and problem troubleshooting.
5. Maintain documentation, clear and concise lab notebooks, and provide reports. Support specification development.
6. Remain on the forefront of beverage trends and food science to suggest and create innovative products for the company.
7. Provide technical and scientific input for manufacturing including developing testing parameters for QA, product specification sheets, and shelf-life monitoring and evaluations.
8. Apply technical knowledge and establish credibility with highly technical audiences.
9. Participate in brainstorming and ideation for new products.
10. Use sensory techniques to match competitive products.
11. Ability to troubleshoot issues that arise with formulations based on knowledge of ingredient interactions.
12. Support plant trials and first production to ensure product consistency and alignment with bench-top formulations.
13. Support customer needs and provide technical presentation materials when needed.

1. Knowledge of lab testing skills, methods, and equipment.
2. Basic understanding of flavors and functionality of flavors.
3. Basic understanding of ingredients and functionality of those ingredients in a finished product.
4. Basic nutritional knowledge and understanding of labeling etc. of food products.
5. Strong formulation skills.
6. Strong project management skills. 
7. Detail oriented and quick learner.
8. Ability to work cross functionally.
9. Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
10. Excellent math skills.
11. Proficient skill with personal computer and job-related software including Microsoft Office products.
12. Ability to successfully handle multiple tasks at one time and meet deadlines.
13. Ability to distinguish colors, aromas, and flavors for product evaluations.
14. Ability to work independently and with a team.
15. Knowledge and understanding of basic Food Safety and FDA and regulatory requirements.

 Education and Experience Required: Minimum of Bachelor’s degree in Food Science and 3-5 years’ experience in R&D/Product Development, with beverage and coffee/tea experience preferred.