Job Description

Shape the Future of Food: Product Development Scientist!

New role to support product improvement program. The team will be working on a product improvement project, renovating our existing portfolio of products to make them taste better.

Are you a food science enthusiast ready to make a real impact on a beloved product?

We're seeking a passionate and skilled Product Development Scientist to join a dynamic team focused on innovating and enhancing an existing food portfolio . This is your chance to play a key role in a product improvement project, from initial recipe development to factory trials and launch.

What you’ll do:

• Use your scientific expertise to create and refine recipes, driving improvements in taste and quality.
• Work hands-on in the lab and pilot plant, bringing your ideas to life.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams – from product development and marketing to consumer research – to ensure project success.
• Take ownership of your work, with the opportunity to work semi-autonomously within established guidelines.
• Analyze data, adapt recipes based on feedback, and meticulously document your progress.

What you’ll need:

• A minimum of a science-based degree, preferably in Food Science or Technology.
• 2+ years of experience in a food or CPG company.
• Solid laboratory and computer skills.
• The ability to work independently and manage multiple projects.
• A scientific approach to problem-solving and a passion for understanding consumer preferences.
• A valid driver's license and the ability to travel.

What we offer:

• The chance to work on a high-profile product improvement project.
• A collaborative and fun team environment.
• Opportunities for professional growth, with potential for career advancement.
• Mentorship and training to enhance your technical and leadership skills.

Estimated Start Date: 1st May 2025 (TBC)

Role Duration: 2 years

Potential to convert to perm

Pay Rate: $42-51 per hour (W2) paid weekly

Does position require to travel? If yes what %?

Yes, will need own car for travel.

20% to Chicago area (company head office or supplier facility) - average 1 day per week to Chicago and occasional visits to factory in South Carolina (~once per month) to conduct factory trials

Does the position require to travel international? If yes what %

1 trip per year (2 weeks) to Rotterdam to train and work with the whole PD team

Travel:

• Travel costs will be covered by the company and the candidate will receive a stipend for meals while traveling
• International travel to the Netherlands for 2 weeks is a requirement -- candidate must agree to this upon screening and hire
• Domestic travel between Urbana & Chicago is also required, this will be more frequent.

Candidate Location:

• The teams will be based between the corporate office in Chicago (Oak Park) and the University campus in Urbana Champaign. These are ~2 hours drive apart.
• If they live in Urbana, they will have a visit to Chicago every 1-2 weeks for the day.

What is this role’s main focus for the first 90 days?

Learning the products, ingredients and how recipes are built. Making samples of seasonings based on existing recipes. Making samples of packaged rice in the pilot plant.

What are the challenges the contractor will face in this role?

Working on multiple recipes in parallel.

Reporting back progress on the plan.

With whom will they work most closely – both internally & externally?

Peer product developer every day. Senior product developer multiple times a week. Pilot plant technologist weekly. Consumer research agency monthly.

What are the team’s biggest priorities over the next 6-12 months?

Make new recipes for existing products to meet latest flavour direction from consumer research. Make these recipes in pilot plant and trial through consumer research. Make final recipes in factory trials and complete documentation for launch.

If you're ready to apply your food science expertise in a role that offers both autonomy and collaboration, we encourage you to apply!

FOR MORE IMMEDIATE CONSIDERATION, email a current resume to iris.levy@randstadusa.com

TXT: Your NAME and FOOD to 954-308-6735

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