Job Description

Job Title: Product Development Specialist                  

Location:  Corporate

Department: Marketing                                                  

Position Summary:

The Product Development Specialist will be responsible for the development of Wawa beverage products. Work closely with the Category Team to align products with strategic goals.  This position is also responsible to refine existing programs to increase quality as well as drive cost and non-value added activities out of Wawa’s operations.

Principal Duties:Lead Product Development day-to-day functions for specific categories/sub-categories. Work independently to move projects through the process to meet the assigned goals.Responsible for creating and refining specifications for line extensions by developing multiple profiles/options for each concept and using a methodical approach to narrow down to the best alternatives.Facilitate internal and external sensory events including steps leading up to and following each event. Revise formulations and programs based on customer and associate feedback from sensory events, in-store tests, and sales and profitability data in order to improve customer satisfaction.Perform competitive analysis and benchmarks.  Compare and communicate sample feedback based on ingredient attributes from the manufacturing process to team & vendor partners.Collaborate cross-functionally through each stage of the Product Development Process.Maintain all project details for assigned categories including quality control checks, portioning, spec development and product specifications.

Essential Functions:

Ability to work well individually as well as in a team environmentExcellent oral and written communication skillsExcellent customer service skillsAbility to work with little or no supervisionDetail oriented and strong organizational skillsStrong analytical and problem solving skillsAbility to handle multiple projectsExcellent interpersonal skillsProven self-starter with demonstrated ability to make decisionsSolid leadership skillsAbility to evaluate  and make recommendations on products or processes based on their sensorial attributes

Basic Requirements:

Degree in Food Science or Culinary Arts, Certified Culinary Scientist, Certified Research Chef, or related field preferred.2 to 3 years of experience using a formal product development process or equivalent Master’s Degree field –related workExperience with beverage development preferredProficient in Microsoft Office Suite

Wawa will provide reasonable accommodation to complete an application upon request, consistent with applicable law. If you require an accommodation, please contact our Associate Service Center at asc@wawa.com or 1-800-444-9292.

Wawa, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. Wawa maintains a work environment in which Associates are treated fairly and with respect and in which discrimination of any kind will not be tolerated. In accordance with federal, state and local laws, we recruit, hire, promote and evaluate all applicants and Associates without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, ancestry, familial status, marital status, sexual orientation or preference, gender identity or expression, citizenship status, disability, veteran or military status, genetic information, domestic or sexual violence victim status or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. Unlawful discrimination will not be a factor in any employment decision.