Position requires a person who is strong in practical and technical skills in the field of new product, product improvement and process development for all salty snacks products. Must have the ability to integrate their technical strengths with creativity in new product development and process and packaging design. Requires the ability to direct and handle multiple tasks at one time. It is essential, that the person have the ability to communicate the department mission and objectives in a clear and persuasive manner. Requires the ability to adapt to unforeseen circumstances and the ability to resolve conflict with minimal assistance. Responsibilities: + Take all measures to ensure internal and external customers total satisfaction. + Supervise and perform the daily projects assigned by department. + Exercises good leadership and communication skills. + Help build and maintain an effective R & D team. + Communicate effectively with all customers (internal and external). + Keep accurate records on all tests that are being performed. + Ensure all department requirements & Standard Operating Procedures (SOP's) are met. + Perform ingredient evaluations (benchtop testing, sensory analysis, comparative analysis, etc.) and submit case studies on all findings. + Manage all Product Specification Sheets and BOMs including conducting annual reviews and developing new items as needed. + Proactively collaborate with external suppliers to solve challenges and source alternative ingredients. + Instrumental in qualifying new suppliers. + Provide research and development knowledge on new product trials. + Provide scale up knowledge in the event a product increases production to full scale. + Actively participate in research, justification and implementation involved in long range planning of the department and product lines. + Assess the product specifications and test them with customer requirements. + Maintain a comprehensive understanding of all products manufactured by the plant and the raw materials, packaging materials, and operations required in the manufacturing process, including quality specifications and standards. + Review labels and raw materials routinely. + Ensure product compliance with regulatory agencies and ensure that the company is adhering to quality standards; guide production staff about quality standards. + Travel as needed and take lead role in product testing at other plant locations. Qualifications: + Bachelor's degree in Food Science or related field or equivalent FDA experience. + Three (3) to five (5) years of experience in a R&D environment + Computer proficient (MS office software). + Demonstrated understanding of ingredient development, functionality, processing, etc. + A team player who works well in an environment where sharing information and open communication is critical to the overall success of the organization. + Strong communication and self-management skills.