Job OverviewThe Product Development Scientist will support product development and day-to-day R&D operations, working closely with the R&D Director to bring products from concept to commercialization. This role is highly hands-on and spans benchtop formulation, sample preparation, product testing, technical documentation, and scale-up support at co-manufacturing partners.
Success in this role requires strong technical execution, attention to detail, and the ability to manage multiple work streams across development, documentation, and operations.
ResponsibilitiesProduct Development- Develop new formulas, formula improvements, and product renovations at benchtop and pilot scale
- Produce samples for internal evaluation, retailer presentations, and product testing
- Design, run, and document shelf-life, stability, and product performance studies
- Evaluate new and alternative ingredients through comparison samples, sensory analysis, and written findings
Trials & Scale-Up- Plan, support, and attend trial production at co-manufacturing facilities
- Provide on-site technical support during scale-up and commercialization
Documentation & Compliance- Maintain bills of materials (BOMs), formulas, and batch documentation
- Develop nutrition facts panels and ingredient statements for new and revised products
- Write and maintain finished product specifications and internal ingredient specifications
- Manage supplier and co-manufacturer documentation (specs, COAs, certifications, batch sheets)
- Support certification programs (Organic, Non-GMO Project Verified, Kosher)
Lab Operations- Help maintain R&D lab operations including inventory, sanitation, and equipment care
Cross-Functional Support- Partner with Operations, Quality & Compliance, Procurement, and Marketing on R&D initiatives
Requirements- Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Food Chemistry, Chemistry, Biology, or Nutrition
- 2-4 years of experience in the food industry
- Hands-on experience with benchtop and pilot-scale product development
- Strong attention to detail and organization
- Analytical mindset - comfortable with formula math, unit conversions, % solids, Brix
- Proficiency with Microsoft Excel
- Clear written and verbal communication skills
- Ability to work on-site in a lab environment and remain on feet for extended periods
Preferred- Experience in frozen desserts, ice cream, or frozen novelty manufacturing
- Experience with nutrition analysis software (Tech Wizard, Genesis R&D, or equivalent)
- Familiarity with ERP systems, particularly Microsoft Dynamics Business Central
- Experience supporting trials at contract manufacturers or co-packing operations
- Familiarity with FDA food labeling requirements (21 CFR)
Department: Research & Development
Reports to: R&D Director
Location: Long Island City, NY (On-site 4 days/week)
Type: Full-Time
Travel: 10-20% (Co-manufacturing trials and production support)
