Product Development Scientist

Welch's is on a journey towards our bold ambition of being the global-leader of convenient, good for you fruit-based food and beverages. To turn this goal into a reality we need you and other exceptionally talented, agile, and innovative individuals who are eager to contribute to something extraordinary!

At Welch's, we're not just offering a job; we're inviting you to be a part of a vibrant, authentic, and inclusive culture where you not only belong, but also have the opportunity to unleash the best, most authentic version of you.

We’re looking for a Product Development Scientist to support the development and commercialization of new products across our growing portfolio of beverages and fruit-based foods. This role sits at the intersection of front-end innovation and commercial execution and is ideal for someone who is comfortable in ambiguity and in the rigor of scale-up and commercialization.

This role will be based out of our Waltham, MA headquarters where you will be immersed in a dynamic workplace where innovation thrives and collaboration is key. Our company in-office schedule is designed to maximize collaboration & relationship building balanced with flexibility and well-being with 3 days in office and Thursdays/Friday being remote, flex days.

• →Own and execute product innovation projects from concept through commercialization, ensuring consumer relevance, technical feasibility, and business viability
• →Translate consumer insights into rapid prototypes and product mock-ups to influence project decision-making and direction
• →Develop agile product development methods and systems to accelerate time to launch
• →Tap into external partners (ie. vendors, suppliers) to accelerate prototyping and execution
• →Leverage supplier relationships and AI tools to forecast trends, map white space, and assess competition
• →Partner with Marketing and Consumer insights to develop consumer testing plans
• →Communicate with external co-manufacturing partners ensuring timelines and qualification plans align across businesses
• →Deliver work in support of business continuity, quality monitoring, productivity, and cost and product optimization initiatives
• →Design and execute sensory testing to validate formula changes and ingredient swap outs
• →Plan and execute bench-top, pilot plant, and plant trials documenting results and next steps
• →Collaborate cross-functionally with Marketing, Insights, QA, Operations, and Finance
• →Create and review specifications throughout the NPD cycle for applicable projects (e.g. raw material, nutritional, formulation, manufacturing, and finished product specifications)

• Brings both a passion for consumer co-creation and strong technical execution
• Builds strong working relationships with cross-functional partners
• Navigates ambiguity by turning ideas into actionable plans
• Hands on and resourceful, with a drive to quickly build, test, and iterate
• Balances speed and rigor, making thoughtful, timely decisions
• Adapts quickly based on new learnings and shifting priorities
• Takes ownership of outcomes and follows through on complex challenges
• Works relentlessly to anticipate obstacles and creates plans to overcome them
  • Ability to imagine the future of consumer behavior and create solutions accordingly

• 3-5 years of new product development experience with a proven track record of launching food and/or beverage products from concept through commercialization
• A Bachelor’s degree in food science, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or related fields.
• Comfort guiding actions of external partners (suppliers, service vendors, co-manufacturers, labs)
• Strong communication skills and ability to translate technical information to non-technical audiences
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously
• Strong analytical skills and ability to translate data into decisions
• Basic knowledge of food safety, GMPs, regulatory requirements, and quality systems
• General knowledge of food & beverage processing and filling equipment
• Willingness to travel up to 15% based on project requirements
  • Preferred Qualifications
    • Experience in fruits and vegetables food and beverage
    • Experience with rapid prototyping and agile innovation approaches
    • Experience working with co-manufacturers and external production partners

• Organization with a bold, clear purpose & vision for the future
• Inclusive Culture: Be a part of an inclusive workplace where you not only belong but also have the opportunity to be the best version of yourself
• Passionate Community: You are encouraged to have a voice, share your opinions, and have individual impact on the success of the business
• Hybrid work model: Flexible & collaborative work environment to maximize well-being & success
• Paid Time Off and Holidays: Available immediately for you to enjoy time away from the office to rest and recharge
• Paid Volunteer Time Off: 40 hours of paid volunteer time for all non-union employees
• Development & Advancement: Access to LinkedIn Learning as well as both formal and informal opportunities to develop and grow your career
• Compensation Package Consisting of Competitive Base Salary and Annual Incentive Plan (Bonus)
• 401K plan with Generous Company Match
• Flexible Benefits from your first day: Choose the benefits that meet your needs and preferences
• Health, Dental & Vision Insurance
• Health Savings Accounts
• Life and accident insurance
• Employee Assistance Programs
• Tuition reimbursement program
• Additional benefits available through Perks at Work
• Paid parental (and adoption) leave – Available after 12 months of employment Welch's offers more than just a job – it's an opportunity to grow, innovate, and make a global impact with a passionate community.