R&D Manager

Job DetailsJob Location: Montevideo - Jessup, MD 20794Position Type: Full TimeSalary Range: $100,000.00 - $160,000.00 SalaryJob Shift: AnyResearch and Development Manager As the R&D Manager, you will lead a talented team of Food Scientists and Technologists. You are a project leader who understands the intersection of culinary art, food science, and business profitability. You will oversee the entire product lifecycle from customer brief to full-scale production, ensuring every blend is "right first time". Key Responsibilities • Strategic Innovation: Lead the systematic Stage-Gate process for new products, ensuring projects move seamlessly from ideation to commercialization. • Team Leadership: Manage and mentor the R&D team, conducting performance appraisals and developing individual growth plans to foster excellence. • Financial Optimization: Drive cost optimization and raw material rationalization initiatives to improve margins without compromising quality. • Cross-Functional Collaboration: Partner with Sales, QC, Technical Service, and Production to ensure scalable formulations and successful launches. • Technical Support: Act as the technical lead in customer-facing meetings, translating complex requirement into flavor solutions for major food brands. • Compliance & Food Safety: Ensure all activities adhere to GFSI standards (SQF), FSMA, and regulatory requirements (FDA/USDA). • Market Intelligence: Conduct sensory evaluations and monitor global flavor trends to proactively present concepts to the sales team. What We Offer • Competitive Compensation: We provide a competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits package designed to support our employees' well-being. • Professional Growth: As a leader in the spice industry, we offer significant opportunities for professional development and career advancement. • Culture of Innovation: You will work in a collaborative and forward-thinking environment where creativity and new ideas are expected. • Inclusive Environment: Elite Spice Inc. is an equal opportunity employer committed to celebrating diversity and creating an inclusive workspace. Qualifications• Education: Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Food Science, Chemistry, or a related technical field. • Experience: Minimum of 7–10 years in R&D within the food industry, with at least 3 years in a leadership role. • Technical Skills: Proficiency with ESHA Genesis for nutritional analysis, Microsoft Office Suite, and ERP systems. • Project Management: Strong ability to manage a high-volume project portfolio with tight deadlines.