Research & Development Manager / Flavor Specialist

Job Overview We are seeking a dynamic and innovative R&D Manager / Flavor Specialist to lead the technical development of new nutraceutical formulas with a specialized focus on flavor science and sensory excellence. This role owns the full lifecycle of product innovation — from concept and flavor ideation through formulation, scale-up, and commercial launch. Partnering closely with Production, Quality Assurance, Sales, and Purchasing, this individual ensures that every product meets rigorous quality, regulatory, and sensory standards. The R&D Manager also provides expert technical guidance and troubleshooting support throughout batch and fill processes during production scale-up. Responsibilities Product Development & Flavor Innovation Create and implement new product development and flavor launch plans aligned with market trends and consumer preferences. Design, evaluate, and refine flavor profiles for nutraceutical products including powders, capsules, gummies, liquids, and functional foods. Source, evaluate, and recommend flavor ingredients, masking agents, and taste-modifying compounds to optimize product palatability. Lead sensory evaluation panels — taste testing new products, products in testing, and expired flavor assessments. Conduct organoleptic evaluations, incorporating consumer feedback to iterate and improve formulations. Create and edit product formulas and specifications for new and existing SKUs. Technical Formulation & Testing Conduct formulation testing including powder flow, tapped density, and slug formation. Order, mix, and observe pilot batch testing from bench scale through production scale-up. Provide scale-up support to ensure successful transitions for new formulas in manufacturing. Develop nutrition and/or supplement facts panels in compliance with 21 CFR requirements. Review and adjust production work orders to ensure efficient and accurate manufacturing. Review batch records when issues arise and recalculate batches for production modifications. Assist Production with rework and reprocessing plans. Regulatory & Quality Compliance Follow and ensure compliance with the Quality System, cGMP programs, and all applicable 21 CFR regulations. Review product labels to ensure regulatory accuracy and compliance. Maintain thorough and clear records of all R&D work, flavor trials, and formulation changes. Support Quality Assurance and Lab Services in testing and documentation activities. Cross-Functional Collaboration Work with Sales to address and implement necessary formula and flavor changes based on market feedback. Work with Purchasing to qualify new raw materials, flavor ingredients, and vendors. Work with Finance to accurately cost products and formula changes. Meet with vendors to source materials for existing product improvement. Research new ingredients and processes for existing product improvement and line extensions. Review labels to ensure accuracy prior to launch. General & Safety Keep thorough and clear records of all R&D activities and formulation work. Attend and actively participate in cross-functional meetings as needed. Support and engage with company and departmental safety policies, procedures, and programs. Follow all company policies and procedures and maintain a clean, orderly work area. Perform other duties as assigned or needed Requirements Education & Experience Bachelor's or Master's degree in Food Science, Flavor Chemistry, Nutritional Science, Biochemistry, or a related scientific discipline (or equivalent work experience). Minimum 8 years of experience in product formulation management, preferably in nutraceuticals, dietary supplements, or functional foods. Demonstrated expertise in flavor science — including flavor chemistry, sensory analysis, masking technologies, and consumer preference testing. Expert knowledge of R&D processes and manufacturing operations in a cGMP-regulated environment. Regulatory & Technical Knowledge Strong understanding of all local, state, and federal regulatory compliance requirements (21 CFR) as well as third-party cGMP certification requirements. Familiarity with

FEMA GRAS

status for flavor ingredients and applicable food/supplement labeling regulations. Experience developing supplement facts and nutrition facts panels. Skills & Competencies Advanced math skills for formula calculations, cost modeling, and batch recalculation. Complex reading, writing, and language skills; fluency in additional languages is desirable. Strong communication and cross-functional collaboration skills. Proficiency in Microsoft Office and relevant documentation/ERP systems; basic computer skills required. Highly organized with the ability to keep accurate, thorough records of all technical work. Willingness to continuously learn new tasks, technologies, and procedures. Reliable, consistent attendance with few instances of unplanned absence. Physical Requirements This role requires the following physical activities on a regular basis: Repetitive motions, sitting, standing, and walking throughout the workday. Using hands for laboratory and production tasks. Lifting and carrying items up to 50 lbs. Operating laboratory and production machinery. Ability to manage fast-paced, multi-tasking activities in a production environment.

Pay:

From $90,000.00 per year

Benefits:

Dental insurance Health insurance Paid time off Application Question(s): What are your salary expectations for this position?

Work Location:

In person