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: On a per project basis, collaborates with multiple teams and ingredient / packaging suppliers, from project scope definition through launch execution Participates in / contributes to all aspects of product design, including new idea generation, prototype development, competitive assessments, and technical / regulatory / food safety compliance Research / analyzes industry technology trends and consumer trends to identify opportunities for new products, new process technologies, and cost savings initiatives Maximizes ingredient and packaging supplier capabilities throughout the full lifecycle of product development and design process Negotiates with suppliers and other external stakeholders to ensure adherence with specifications and legal agreements Leads plant-level product development meetings to ensure success of plant trials and launch execution Develops specifications for Own Brand products that reflect the essential quality parameters for customer delight and success May manage a specific product category, and ingredient / packaging initiatives (e.g., H-E-B Select Ingredients) that support company business goals Selects ingredients / suppliers required for development of new products; notifies Quality Initiatives and Procurement of new ingredients / supplier Manages intermediate and finished goods BOMs in D365; ensures new items are entered; ensures ongoing BOM maintenance Reviews / approves new packaging artwork against OBPS records for technical content and regulatory labeling requirements Conducts feasibility analysis for new products on an existing production line and / or plant Completes P&Ls to determine profitability and business case for new products on an existing line and / or plant 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: 5+ years of Food Science experience - Required; Dairy science preferred Knowledge/Skills/Abilities: Working knowledge of HACCP, USDA, OSHA, FDA, and other state weight and measure requirements - Required Knowledge of technology / product trends and how to identify / define key product quality and sensory attributes - Required Knowledge of product development, including manufacturing, packaging ingredients and nutrition - Required Knowledge of stage-gate methodology - Required Advanced mathematical and statistical analysis skills - Required Advanced computer skills (including MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint) - Required Advanced verbal / written communications skills that translate on an international scale - Required Strong negotiating and influencing skills - Required Strong troubleshooting, problem-solving, and decision-making skills - Required Ability to effectively teach complex technical information to a non-technical audience - Required Ability to understand business objectives, and how technical solutions must fit within business realities - Required Ability to manage non-exempt and exempt Partners, one-on-one or in teams - Required Ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines; attention to detail - Required Ability to work in a team environment - Required Ability to work complex issues with senior management, and lead / influence internal and external stakeholders - Required Ability to make key decisions on a daily basis while seeking perspective and input - Required Ability to take initiative; willingness to take calculated risks and collaborate with key partners for alignment - Required Education: Bachelor’s Degree in Science - Required, Food Science preferred Licenses/Certifications: Physical Demands & Working Conditions: Function in a fast-paced, manufacturing environment Require regular on-site presence in office/laboratory/manufacturing facilities to support product development trials and launch activities Travel by car or plane with overnight stays Sit or stand for extended periods Occasionally lift 20 lbs or more 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