R&D MANAGER

The R&D project manager focuses on the development & and launch of new items, along with reformulation of existing items.  Project and product involvement will extend from initial concept (or project initiation) through to production and ongoing troubleshooting manufacturing operations as required.  This position requires very little travel, except for within the Chicago-land area. 

Technical Leadership

·         Support new idea generation, prototype development, product optimization, and production start-up as part of the product development life cycle.

·         Utilize scientific methods to develop knowledge that creates business opportunities that support the company strategic objectives.

·         Design and execute experiments, and analyze and interpret data to make sound technical recommendations on product and process issues.

·         Know in detail and follow the R&D process to ensure a robust product design.

·         Leverage external and internal experts for development & troubleshooting guidance.

·         Develop complete product attribute specifications & process control points for new products/product redesigns.

·         Partner externally to source ingredients and leverage vendor expertise in ingredient functionality.

Teamwork

·         Participate as an active member of cross-functional business development teams comprised of individuals from a variety of disciplines, including Sales, Purchasing, Compliance/Regulatory, and Operations.

·         Partnering with Quality Assurance & Regulatory/Compliance to ensure a robust, safe and legal new product/product redesign.

Desired Skills & Experience

·         BS or MS Food Science, Culinary Arts, Agriculture or similar discipline

·         5-10 years prior experience in food formulation and processing (Artisan & Traditional Baked Bread focus) desired.

·         Experience leading your own projects with minimal supervision. 

·         Experience with plant scale-up & troubleshooting required.

·         Comfortable with presentations to customers and internal staff. 

·         Computer competency in Microsoft Word, Excel & Outlook required. 

Other

·         Minimal travel required, with a majority within the Chicago-land Metro area.