**Description** Manufacturing, innovation, and happy pets too. We are excited to announce that we are looking for a Product Performance and Commercialization Lead (1st Shift) to join our rapidly growing company. With thirty years of growth in the global pet food sector, our ORIJEN and ACANA brands define our vision of being The Global Leader in Advancing Premium Food for Pets. If you are passionate about personal and professional growth and see yourself as a key player contributing to our continued success by working in our award-winning company – we would love to hear from you. **Summary** The Product Performance and Commercialization Lead works with the Senior Manager , Innovation and Commercialization to ensure the goals of the department are met. This position has accountability in leading efficient and timely launches of new products, development of products that meet or exceed product performance goals and managing the relationship between research and innovation and our operational teams. Product Performance and Commercialization Lead participates in all areas of transitioning new products to commercial production and their optimization thereafter. The Product Performance and Commercialization Lead works out of the designated kitchen, working closely with R & I department members and key team members throughout our kitchens. **Responsibilities** + Help prepare and send ingredients for test runs and kibble for third party testing + In absence of the Manager, Product Development & Performance, provide updates to corporate project team on status of all PD tasks contributing to larger projects. + Oversight & participation in on-time execution of hand off of new formulas and packaging from corporate product development to Dog Star kitchens. + Collect and send finished product to 3 rd party labs for regulatory testing, as per Regulatory Department needs + Participate in the research and development of ideas for new product development projects that are in alignment with the Company’s mission and values. + Lead all in kitchen testing development and commercialization projects. + Act as primary liaison, between Research and Innovation, Quality Assurance, Operations and Procurement for new products being commercialized within NorthStar Kitchens. + Participate in all in kitchen activities related to product development, including formula test runs and performance testing + Develop and demonstrate a strong understanding of kibble cooking and freeze drying techniques and the function of production equipment & machinery. + Aid in the development of departmental standards, practices, and procedures that comply with all relevant regulatory requirements and with corporate policies, practices, and procedures. + Accurately and securely maintain and store all records of test results, projects, and other intellectual property. + Demonstration of knowledge of the Company’s policies and practices regarding health, safety and the environment, including commitment to personal compliance with same. + Provide support to supply chain in the event of operational changes. + Provide troubleshooting and process improvement support to the operational team. + Perform other tasks as assigned. **Requirements** + Minimum of a 4 year degree preferred, but exceptional knowledge of extrusion and petfood production practices may be considered in place. + A fundamental understanding of mathematics, and the ability to perform unit conversions and calculations + Knowledge of current product lines and of quality and performance issues related to products is an asset. + Experience in interacting with other individuals and working with a team, demonstrating diplomacy and professionalism at all times. + Detail-oriented, with a good ability to review documentation for accuracy, completeness, and compliance to SOPs and GMP. + Excellent written and oral communication skills. + Fluent in English, both written and spoken. + Excellent organizational and planning skills with the ability to multi-task and set priorities. + Uses discretion and judgment in handling confidential, proprietary or sensitive information. + Able to work effectively independently or within a group. + Passion to learn, develop, and implement new technologies and methods. + Computer proficiency with MS Office programs. **Work Conditions** + Work encompasses both an office and a pet food production environment, with exposure to dust, noise, odours, and/or fluctuating temperatures. + Intermittent physical activity includes walking, standing and sitting for extended periods of time. + Ability to stand for long periods of time. + Ability to lift up to 50 lbs. using correct and safe lifting technique. + Ability to work shifts at cold temperatures (<30°F) + Manual dexterity required to use desktop computer and peripherals. + PPE may be required for some locations where this position is regularly required to work. + Must be able to physically inspect company property and assets. + Some extended hours of work may be required. Come as you are. We value diversity in all forms and know the power it can bring. Workplace equality allows for creative ideas to bloom, diverse points of views to be heard, and increases overall happiness. That sounds pretty good to us. Champion is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, age, veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable law.