R&D Manager

Our client, a growing food manufacturer based in South Austin, TX, is looking for an experienced R D Manager to join their team. This is a key technical leadership role responsible for driving product innovation, leading formulation work, and supporting commercialization as the company continues to expand. What YOU get to DO at this growing company: Lead end-to-end product development from concept and formulation through pilot runs and commercialization. Manage all R D initiatives, including new product development, customer-driven projects, reformulations, cost optimizations, and shelf-life improvements. Collaborate closely with Operations, Quality, Procurement, and Sales to ensure new products are commercially viable, cost-effective, and meet customer expectations. Oversee benchtop formulation, sensory evaluation, ingredient functionality testing, and documentation of formulas and specifications. Support scale-up trials and work directly with production teams to ensure smooth transition from lab to manufacturing. Monitor food trends, ingredient technologies, and competitive products to guide innovation strategy and customer pitches. Maintain accurate R D documentation, product specifications, ingredient statements, allergen info, and regulatory compliance. What you NEED to SUCCEED in this challenging role: Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Food Technology, Chemistry, or a related field. 5+ years of product development experience in food manufacturing Hands-on formulation expertise and a strong understanding of ingredient functionality, shelf-life, and food safety requirements. Excellent communication skills and the ability to work with multiple teams Ability to think both creatively (innovation) and practically (manufacturing feasibility and cost). What's in it for YOU? Competitive compensation, bonus and benefits package. Opportunity to shape the innovation pipeline of a fast-growing, high-quality food manufacturer. Collaborative environment that values creativity, technical excellence, and team success.