Job Description
We are seeking a dynamic R&D Manager to lead the development of innovative food products. This role involves overseeing the entire process from concept creation to commercialization, ensuring alignment with business goals and regulatory standards.
ResponsibilitiesLead the end-to-end development of new food products, from ideation and prototyping to pilot testing and scale-up.Collaborate with marketing to translate consumer insights into viable product concepts.Evaluate new ingredients, technologies, and processes to enhance product quality and shelf life.Partner with marketing, procurement, quality assurance, and operations to align product development with business goals.Coordinate with regulatory and compliance teams to ensure all products meet food safety and labeling standards.Oversee the transition of products from lab-scale to full-scale manufacturing.Optimize formulations and processes for cost, efficiency, and scalability.Support plant trials and troubleshoot production issues during launch.Manage a team of food scientists and technologists, ensuring timely delivery of project milestones.Foster a culture of innovation, continuous improvement, and technical excellence.Essential SkillsBachelor’s or Master’s degree in Food Science, Food Engineering, or related field.5+ years of experience in food product development, with at least 2 years in a leadership role.Proven track record of launching successful food products from concept to market.Strong knowledge of food safety regulations (e.g., FDA, USDA, HACCP, SQF).Experience with pilot plant operations and manufacturing scale-up.Excellent communication, leadership, and project management skills.Additional Skills & QualificationsExperience in consumer packaged goods (CPG) or specialty food manufacturing.Familiarity with sensory evaluation, shelf-life testing, and nutritional labeling.Proficiency in formulation software and data analysis tools.Work Environment
The role operates across various environments including a lab, kitchen, pilot plant, and manufacturing settings.
Pay and Benefits
The pay range for this position is $120000.00 - $150000.00/yr.
Health & Wellness
Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance
Health Savings Account (HSA) and Flexible Spending Account (FSA) options
Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for mental health and personal support
Wellness incentives and virtual health resources
Financial Security
401(k) retirement plan with company match
Life and AD&D insurance (basic and voluntary)
Short-Term and Long-Term Disability coverage
Optional critical illness, accident, and hospital indemnity insurance
Work-Life Balance
Paid Time Off (PTO) including vacation, sick leave, and holidays
Paid parental leave
Flexible work arrangements (remote/hybrid options where applicable)
Volunteer time off and community engagement programs
Professional Growth
Tuition reimbursement and continuing education support
Access to online learning platforms and certifications
Career development programs and mentorship opportunities
Additional Perks
Employee discount programs through partners like Abenity
Commuter benefits and transportation subsidies
Legal and identity theft protection plans
Company-sponsored events and recognition programs
Workplace Type
This is a fully onsite position in Perryville,MO.
Application Deadline
This position is anticipated to close on Aug 4, 2025.
About Actalent
Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 30,000 consultants and more than 4,500 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500.
The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.
If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.