Food Scientist

A fast-paced snack company is seeking a creative and self-directed Food Scientist to lead product development across candy, trail mix, and nut categories. This onsite role offers full lab access, cross-functional collaboration, and the opportunity to innovate in a dynamic environment with hundreds of SKUs.

Client Details

This privately held snack company is known for its bold innovation, fast-paced culture, and deep roots in the snack food industry. With hundreds of SKUs across categories like candy, trail mix, and nuts, the company thrives on creativity, collaboration, and speed to market. Backed by a strong leadership team and external innovation partners, it offers a dynamic environment where ideas turn into shelf-ready products and where passionate, proactive thinkers can truly make their mark.

Description

• Lead new product development from ideation through commercialization
• Formulate and test prototypes in the lab; prepare samples for internal and customer presentations
• Collaborate with marketing, operations, procurement, and sales to align on product goals
• Maintain and update R&D specifications and ingredient documentation
• Conduct sensory testing, shelf-life studies, and plant trials
• Ensure compliance with certifications (Non-GMO, Kosher, Gluten-Free, etc.)
• Analyze competitive products and identify white space opportunities
• Manage your own projects and timelines in a fast-paced, SKU-rich environment

Profile

• 3-5 years of experience in food product development (not entry-level)
• Background in candy, baked goods, ice cream, or confectionery preferred
• Highly creative, self-directed, and proactive
• Strong collaboration skills and ability to work cross-functionally
• Experience working with external innovation partners (e.g., Mattson)
• BS or MS in Food Science or related field
• Spanish language skills a plus

Job Offer

• Bonus: 10% (negotiable up to 15%)
• 80% health coverage
• Strong PTO and holiday package

MPI does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, marital status, or based on an individual's status in any group or class protected by applicable federal, state or local law. MPI encourages applications from minorities, women, the disabled, protected veterans and all other qualified applicants.