Job Description

Who We Are Looking For: We are seeking a dynamic and creative Food Research & Development Specialist with a strong background in New Product Development (NPD) to join our growing team. The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience in food product innovation, from ideation through to commercialization. This role is perfect for someone passionate about culinary science, food trends, and developing innovative food products that meet consumer needs, align with our brand, and adhere to food safety and regulatory standards. Key Responsibilities: Product Innovation & Development: Lead and manage the development of new food products, from concept to final product, including recipe formulation, ingredient selection, and process optimization. Market Research: Conduct market analysis and consumer trend studies to identify opportunities for new product development and innovation in the food industry. Prototype Development: Create and test prototypes, evaluating texture, flavor, appearance, and overall consumer appeal, while ensuring adherence to food safety standards. Collaboration: Work closely with cross-functional teams such as Marketing, Production, Quality Assurance, and Regulatory Affairs to ensure product development meets company standards, legal requirements, and market demands. Process Optimization: Develop scalable production processes for new products, ensuring efficient production, cost-effectiveness, and high product quality. Testing & Evaluation: Conduct sensory evaluations, stability testing, and pilot-scale production trials to refine product formulas and production processes. Documentation & Reporting: Maintain detailed records of formulations, ingredient sourcing, testing protocols, and any modifications during the product development process. Regulatory Compliance: Ensure all new product developments comply with food safety regulations, labelling requirements, and industry standards (e.g., FDA, EFSA). Trend Analysis: Stay up to date with the latest trends in the food industry, such as health-focused ingredients, sustainability, and consumer preferences to drive innovation. Qualifications: Education: Bachelors or Master’s degree in Food Science, Food Technology, Culinary Arts, or related field. Experience: Minimum of 3–5 years of experience in Food R&D, with a focus on New Product Development in food manufacturing. Knowledge: Strong understanding of food formulation, ingredients, and food processing techniques. Knowledge of regulatory requirements and food safety standards (e.g., HACCP, GMP, FDA, EFSA). Familiarity with sensory evaluation, consumer testing, and quality control methods. Experience in working with different product categories (e.g., beverages, snacks, dairy, etc.) is a plus. Skills: Strong problem-solving and critical-thinking abilities. Creative, innovative mindset with a passion for food and consumer trends. Excellent project management and organizational skills. Ability to communicate complex ideas clearly and collaborate effectively across departments. Proficient in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint), and food formulation software/tools. Desired Attributes: Ability to work in a fast-paced and ever-changing environment. Strong attention to detail and a passion for continuous learning and development. Strong interpersonal skills and a team-oriented mindset. Proven ability to meet deadlines and work under pressure. Why Join Us? Work with a well-established Global brand with massive growth potential Be part of a high-performing, innovative team Opportunity to own projects, solve challenges, and drive real impact This is an in-office, full-time role to be based in Coimbatore.