Sr. Product Development Scientist

The Sr. Product Development Scientist leads the development and commercialization of innovative products across a growing portfolio of coffee and powdered beverages. Positioned within R&D, this role works cross-functionally with internal teams and closely partners with external ingredient suppliers.

This position requires a strong foundation in ingredient functionality and product development, paired with a deep understanding of consumer needs and preferences. The ideal candidate brings creativity and technical expertise to ideate, develop, and refine products for both in-home and away-from-home occasions.

A passion for new product development is essential, along with intellectual curiosity, hands-on problem-solving skills, and the ability to thrive in a fast-paced, lab-driven environment. The Sr. Product Development Scientist combines innovation, technical rigor, and agility to drive impactful product launches.

POSITION ACCOUNTABILITIES

• Leads bench-top experiments, formula calculations, and develops products for a variety of KDP brands and products for at-home and away-from-home occasions.
• Interprets test results, writes technical reports, and effectively communicates information within the organization
• Verifies formula accuracy, completes formula documentation, and leads organization of pilot trials and scale up
• Fully understands R&D functions and project management process to lead the commercialization of ideas to launch
• Partners with various functions of R&D (Sensory, Ingredients, Nutrition, Regulatory, Flavor Technology, Chemistry, Process Engineering, and Technical Services)
• Influences and actively participates in Marketing and Consumer Research programs to gain consumer insights, and translate into key product concepts
• Manages multiples projects and represents R&D in cross-functional teams consisting of members across various departments of KDP (R&D, Marketing, Supply Chain, Sales)
• Delivers updates on projects within the business to key stakeholders and cross-functional peers
• Develop the ability to effectively communicate technical information to senior leadership
• Proactively identifies opportunities for improvement within function
• Maintains accurate and detailed record of laboratory work
• Work appropriately and safely in a laboratory environment
• Use formulation software to document lab work and formulas
• Demonstrate flexibility and resilience in adapting to changing business needs and priorities
• Ability to earn trust, maintain positive and professional relationships, and strengthen our culture of inclusion
• A successful candidate will exhibit a passion for innovation, is results driven and takes ownership of work.  
• Provide mentorship and guidance to junior team members to support their professional growth and enhance team performance.

It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

• Salary range: $76,400 – $115,000
• Actual placement within the compensation range may vary depending on experience, skills, and other factors
• Benefits, subject to election and eligibility: Medical, Dental, Vision, Disability, Paid Time Off (including paid parental leave, vacation, and sick time), 401k with company match, Tuition Reimbursement, and Mileage Reimbursement
• Annual bonus based on performance and eligibility

• B.S. in Food Science, Chemistry, Biology, or Chemical Engineering. Advanced degree is a plus.
• 7+ years of experience in a related function within food/beverage (R&D, Quality), CPG, and/or commensurate advanced education
• Experience with Coffee and Powder Beverages a plus.
• Ability to travel as required (Up to 25%).

Capabilities:

• Highly collaborative, self-motivated, takes initiative; positively influence others.
• Strong technical and executional skills.
• Strong communication and presentation skills.