Responsibilities:
Job Summary: Conduct research, evaluate, and interpret data, and ensure compliance with legal and regulatory requirements as you develop formulas, packaging, and processing requirements for new products, in support of simple to intermediate-level projects across two or more product categories. The position calls for creativity and innovative thinking in product development, with an aptitude for transitioning ideas into commercially viable products. You'll participate in cross-functional product development, launch execution teams, and serve our Own Brand team customers by providing technical reports and product specifications.
Key Responsibilities & Essential Functions:
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On a per project basis, collaborates with multiple teams and ingredient / packaging suppliers, from project scope definition through launch execution
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Participates in / contributes to all aspects of product design, including new idea generation, prototype development, competitive assessments, and technical / regulatory / food safety compliance
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Research / analyzes industry technology trends and consumer trends to identify opportunities for new products, new process technologies, and cost savings initiatives
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Maximizes ingredient and packaging supplier capabilities throughout the full lifecycle of product development and design process
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Negotiates with suppliers and other external stakeholders to ensure adherence with specifications and legal agreements
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Leads plant-level product development meetings to ensure success of plant trials and launch execution
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Develops specifications for Own Brand products that reflect the essential quality parameters for customer delight and success
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May manage a specific product category, and ingredient / packaging initiatives (e.g., H-E-B Select Ingredients) that support company business goals
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Selects ingredients / suppliers required for development of new products; notifies Quality Initiatives and Procurement of new ingredients / supplier
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Manages intermediate and finished goods BOMs in D365; ensures new items are entered; ensures ongoing BOM maintenance
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Reviews / approves new packaging artwork against OBPS records for technical content and regulatory labeling requirements
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Conducts feasibility analysis for new products on an existing production line and / or plant
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Completes P&Ls to determine profitability and business case for new products on an existing line and / or plant
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Operates / directs operation of laboratory equipment or apparatus in the performance of tests or experiments
The responsibilities and essential functions outlined above describe the general nature and level of work assigned to this position. This is not an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, and skills required. Duties and responsibilities may be modified at any time based on business needs. Employees may be required to perform other job-related tasks as requested by their supervisor, subject to reasonable accommodations.
Qualifications & Key Requirements:
Work Experience:
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5+ years of Food Science experience - Required; Dairy science preferred
Knowledge/Skills/Abilities:
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Working knowledge of HACCP, USDA, OSHA, FDA, and other state weight and measure requirements - Required
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Knowledge of technology / product trends and how to identify / define key product quality and sensory attributes - Required
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Knowledge of product development, including manufacturing, packaging ingredients and nutrition - Required
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Knowledge of stage-gate methodology - Required
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Advanced mathematical and statistical analysis skills - Required
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Advanced computer skills (including MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint) - Required
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Advanced verbal / written communications skills that translate on an international scale - Required
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Strong negotiating and influencing skills - Required
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Strong troubleshooting, problem-solving, and decision-making skills - Required
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Ability to effectively teach complex technical information to a non-technical audience - Required
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Ability to understand business objectives, and how technical solutions must fit within business realities - Required
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Ability to manage non-exempt and exempt Partners, one-on-one or in teams - Required
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Ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines; attention to detail - Required
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Ability to work in a team environment - Required
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Ability to work complex issues with senior management, and lead / influence internal and external stakeholders - Required
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Ability to make key decisions on a daily basis while seeking perspective and input - Required
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Ability to take initiative; willingness to take calculated risks and collaborate with key partners for alignment - Required
Education:
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Bachelor’s Degree in Science - Required, Food Science preferred
Licenses/Certifications:
Physical Demands & Working Conditions:
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Function in a fast-paced, manufacturing environment
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Require regular on-site presence in office/laboratory/manufacturing facilities to support product development trials and launch activities
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Travel by car or plane with overnight stays
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Sit or stand for extended periods
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Occasionally lift 20 lbs or more
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Work extended hours including overnight, if required
The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those a Partner encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Last revised: 11/17/2025
