JM Smucker Company

Manager, Research & Development

JM Smucker Company • $110K — $130K *
Food & Beverages
5 - 7 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • BS, MS, or Ph.D. in Food Science, Engineering, or a related field
  • 7+ years of relevant R&D or Technical Services experience in the Food Industry
  • Experience in Extrusion, Baking, or Dehydration processes
  • Strong collaboration skills for internal and external partnerships
  • Effective verbal and written communication skills for complex ideas
  • Ability to manage multiple projects in a fast-paced environment
  • Demonstrated critical thinking and data analysis skills

Responsibilities

  • Lead a hybrid team of R&D product developers and process engineers
  • Translate needs from consumers and customers into actionable objectives
  • Support the development of team members in formulation and process methodologies
  • Utilize Food Science expertise to influence projects and partners
  • Build collaborative relationships across various functional areas
  • Proactively address challenges with mitigation plans
  • Manage resource allocation and expectations to meet R&D objectives
  • Make informed decisions and take calculated risks to enhance performance

Benefits

  • Hybrid work arrangement with 50%+ in-office expectations
  • Up to 20% annual travel requirements
  • Opportunities for professional development and mentorship
  • Collaborative and innovative work environment
Full Job Description
Your Opportunity as the Manager, Pet Research & Development

Responsible for managing and leading a high performing hybrid team of product developers and engineers for our Soft & Chewy Dog Snacks. This leadership role will be responsible for identifying, defining, formulating, developing, and commissioning / qualification of product and processing capabilities & technologies for Innovation (study request through launch), Renovation, Design to Value, as well as Business Continuity initiatives in the Pet Business.

Location: Orrville, OH

Work Arrangements: hybrid, 50% or more in office expectations with 20% travel anually

In this role you will:
  • Lead and develop a team of R&D product developers and process engineers at various levels to deliver & launch new product initiatives and refining existing products and processes focused primarily on Soft & Chewy Dog Snacks.
  • Translate consumers', customers', and projects' needs to objectives, learning plan and success criteria.
  • Build, coach, and support the development of direct reports on technologies, tools, methods, and approaches for formulation and process development, validation and qualification. This includes, but not limited to: Technical Learning Plan, Experimental Design, Product Brief, Technical Readiness, Product Specifications, Process Capability, etc.
  • Leverage mastery of Food Science and Food Processing technologies to influence, inform & guide projects and business partners (internal and external).
  • Build strong, collaborative relationships within Pet R&D and with cross-functional partners (Packaging, Analytical, Quality, Co-man, Operations, TSO, Brand, Innovation, Regulatory/Legal, Finance, etc). Influence & guide stakeholders utilizing data to drive recommendations.
  • Understand Pet R&D and Enterprise-wide strategy to anticipate challenges and proactively develop mitigation plans to address.
  • Determine priorities, define the work, manage resource allocation, and set expectations for team members to deliver against the business and Pet R&D objectives.
  • Take ownership of decisions and broad implications. Appropriately challenge decisions and take calculated risks within own decision-making authority to improve performance, utilizing various types of data/inputs.


What we are looking for:

Minimum requirements:
  • BS, MS or Ph.D in Food Science, Engineering, or related field
  • 7+ years of relevant experience in R&D or Technical Services in the Food Industry
  • Experience in Extrusion, Baking, or Dehydration processes
  • Strong collaboration skills and experience partnering internally and externally
  • Ability to effectively communicate, verbally and in writing, complex ideas to a variety of stakeholders both internal and external to the Company
  • Ability to thrive in a changing and fast-paced environment, managing multiple projects simultaneously
  • Willing to embrace changing business priorities and ambiguity
  • Strong leadership skills and demonstrated skills in critical thinking, scientific methods, and analysis/interpretation of data
  • Ability to prioritize projects and resources
  • Up to 20% Travel required


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About JM Smucker Company

J.M. Smucker Company manufactures and supplies spreads, warm beverages, sweeteners, condiments, decorating syrups, and milk products.

JM Smucker Company Careers

There has never been a more exciting time to explore the job opportunities at JM Smucker Company, a leader in the food industry known for its strong values and commitment to quality. As we continue to grow, we invite you to join our team of professionals, where innovation and leadership thrive. Work You’ll Do Join JM Smucker Company’s dynamic team to help drive growth and innovation in one of the most respected companies in the food sector. At JM Smucker, we are dedicated to transforming our business while upholding our unique culture of integrity and responsibility. Lead in a Unique Market Position At JM Smucker Company, you will find yourself at the crossroads of consumer needs and cutting-edge solutions. With a focus on diversity and professional development, we empower our employees to lead and innovate within the industry. Engage with a Skilled Team of Professionals Collaborate with over 7,000 dedicated employees who bring their skills and passion to our teams every day. At JM Smucker, we believe in nurturing talent through comprehensive training and development programs, ensuring that every team member can achieve their career goals. Introducing the JM Smucker Leadership and Innovation Initiative We are committed to fostering leadership and innovation across all levels of our company. This initiative is designed to support our employees in mastering their professional journey through continuous learning and leadership opportunities. Do Innovative Work Be part of a company that is as committed to innovation as it is to producing high-quality products. At JM Smucker Company, you will work on projects that challenge the status quo and push the boundaries of what is possible in the food industry. Be Part of a Great Team Experience a culture that values teamwork, leadership, and diversity. Our teams are made up of individuals from various backgrounds, working together to achieve common goals and drive success in the industry. Future-Proof Your Career With JM Smucker Company, your career is in good hands. We offer a variety of job opportunities, from internships to full-time positions, each accompanied by competitive benefits and the chance for growth. Whether you are just starting out or looking to advance your career, JM Smucker provides the resources and support to help you succeed. Explore Discover how our commitment to innovation leads to superior products and services: [Explore Our Innovations] Read more about how our teams are pioneering new techniques and flavors in the food industry. The JM Smucker Company Difference Our commitment to quality, innovation, and diversity sets us apart in the food industry. We believe that our employees are our greatest asset, and we are dedicated to their growth and development. Stay Connected Join Our Team Search open positions that match your skills and interests. We are always looking for passionate, creative, and driven individuals to join our team. [SEARCH JM SMUCKER JOBS] Keep Up to Date Stay informed with career tips, insider perspectives, and industry-leading insights—all from the people who work here. [READ CAREERS BLOG] Job Alert Emails Customize your subscription to receive job alerts, latest news, and insider tips tailored to your preferences. Discover the exciting and rewarding career opportunities that await at JM Smucker Company. [SUBSCRIBE FOR JOB ALERTS]
Learn more about JM Smucker Company
Size
14,000 employees
Market Cap
$16.9 billion
Industry
Net Income
$955.6 million
Founded
1897
5 Year Trend
+1.6%
Revenue
$8.1 billion

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