The R&D Product Expert Technologist, working under the supervision of the CI&TS Manager, assists in the development of new powder cocoa-based beverage products that meet both country-specific requirements and customer specifications.
The R&D Product Expert Technologist has a key role in supporting the NPI process and works very closely with the RD Product Specialists. The holder of this position manages complex new product development projects from theoretical recipe to lab prototype and industrial product for internal and external clients. Ensures full project follow-up and completion of necessary project documents, including recipe creation.
Key responsibilities of this role include: being able to manage a new product introduction from start to launch, sample and theoretical recipe development, evaluating the physical and chemical parameters of products, leading sensory analysis, supporting factory trials, and production scale-up. The Product Expert Technologist also supports internally driven projects, under the guidance of R&D PE Specialists, and has a pivotal role on the product lifecycle.
To be successful in this role, the Product Expert Technologist must be capable of handling multiple projects, understanding the food manufacturing processes and managing different stakeholders.
Responsibilities:
- Management of the full NPI process end-to-end.
- Develop powder beverage recipes in a timely manner and to meet project specifications.
- Compile and analyze the results obtained in the production of the samples.
- Support Product Expert Specialists.
- Provide technical feedback to the sales and marketing team.
- Assist Project Leads in the development of new formulations, management of existing recipes, and management of customer projects.
- Maintain full understanding of R&D processes, tools and databases.
- Monthly: Evaluate potential cost saving activities through analysis of the product lifecycle.
- Maintain a clean and orderly work environment. Ensure proper care and maintenance of the lab equipment.
- On request: Support factory trials and assist on the evaluation of the physical characteristics of the samples produced during scaling up; Participate actively in customer visits and innovation sessions.
Qualifications:
- Education: Bachelor or Master of Science in a technical field (Biology, Chemistry, Food Science)-Food Science degree preferred.
- Experience: Experience in a product development lab, with a pilot plant, and food quality assurance is a plus.
- Experience in recipe development.
- Industry knowledge: Knowledge of, or interest in baking, frozen, and confectionery applications. Relevant experience in the food industry is an asset; knowledge of food safety, hygiene and worker safety.
- Computer Skills: Proficient use of Microsoft tools (Word, Excel and PowerPoint). SAP and Salesforce knowledge is a plus.
- Personal attributes: team-player, capable of working under pressure and managing many tasks simultaneously.
- Interpersonal skills: Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment and contribute to brainstorming, problem-solving, and decisionmaking discussions.
- Analytical abilities: Strong technical and analytical skill set.
- Solid understanding of quality control procedures, documentation practices, and compliance with relevant regulations and standards.
- Fluent English (speaking, writing and reading). Swedish is preferred.
Additional information:
- Travel requirements: <10%.
- A hands-on individual that can work within a group as well as independently.