This is a hybrid position in the Greater Chicago Area

Schedule : Full-Time | Monday – Friday

Location : Hybrid | Brookfield, Illinois

Duration : Direct Hire

Comp : $100,000 - $150,000 salary, depending on experience

Travel : 40-50% domestic travel required

Our client is looking for a Research and Development Scientist (Senior level) in the food industry.

Responsibilities:

• Monitor industry trends, technologies, and ingredients to stay ahead of market needs.
• Act as an R&D expert, supporting project goals and cross-functional collaboration.
• Lead new product innovation and manage the entire development lifecycle.
• Develop product prototypes and present them to leadership and cross-functional teams.
• Design and execute experiments to explore product opportunities.
• Analyze experimental results and recommend optimizations.
• Optimize existing products for cost, quality, and nutrition.
• Collaborate with Supply Chain to source high-quality, cost-effective ingredients.
• Document processing parameters, ingredient specs, and nutritional info.
• Work with Finance and Supply Chain to create P&Ls for new products.
• Prepare product specifications, labels, and formulations while adhering to regulations.
• Ensure compliance with USDA organic guidelines for product development.
• Partner with Plant Operations to refine production processes.
• Oversee trials and product start-ups, collaborating with plant teams for smooth production.
• Provide product samples for sales, leadership, and marketing needs.
• Conduct product shelf-life testing and oversee third-party lab submissions.
• Ensure customer satisfaction through consistent, high-quality products.
• Determine product specs, track nutritional data, and ensure packaging compliance.
• Travel to plants and partners for trials and production support (40-50% domestic travel).

Candidate Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Food Science or related field, or equivalent experience.
• 5+ years in new product development.
• Experience with better-for-you and USDA organic products.
• Background in food or snack manufacturing.
• Familiarity with Stage Gate processes and relevant software.
• Strong team player with adaptability and problem-solving skills.
• Skilled at presenting to leadership and customers.

City Staffing is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in all aspects of our business. As a women-owned and operated business, WBE certified, we recognize the importance of creating an inclusive and welcoming work environment for all individuals regardless of age, race, creed, color, national origin, sex, ability, marital status, gender identity and/or expression, or sexual orientation.

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