PRIMARY FUNCTION: The Product Development Manager performs and oversees Research & Development activities for multiple projects, products, and clients surrounding the creation and development of poultry-based products. This role partners both internally and externally with customers to develop first class poultry derived products including ensuring compliance with all regulations and legal requirements.

RESPONSIBILITIES AND TASKS:    
•    Lead or participate in the development of products and production processes effectively partnering with internal departments and external organizations (e.g. QA, Operations, Sales, Purchasing, USDA, customers, suppliers, etc.) to ensure products are uniformly produced within customer specifications while remaining complaint with all quality, regulatory and legal requirements
•    Develop project plans including resource assignment, process monitoring and project/ task milestones; follow-up to ensure project stays within cost and time parameters providing periodic updates to appropriate leader/ customer on any constraints or issues in a timely manner
•    Identify, research, and implement new or updated technologies to drive the improvement of current processes improving quality, production, capacity, throughout, efficiency, cost, etc. 
•    Mentor, coach and train/ cross-train staff, encouraging career development; provide consistent feedback concerning strengths and areas in need of improvement
•    Wear and ensure other wear all required personal protection equipment in areas where mandatory promoting a zero-accident environment
•    Perform other duties as assigned

SUPERVISOR RESPONSIBILITIES: 
•    While this role may not have direct reports, it may indirectly manage project participants and it is considered a Leader of People role with required competencies:  Sizing up People, Delegation, Planning, Customer Focus and Conflict Management

EDUCATION and CERTIFICATIONS: 
•    Bachelors degree in Food Science, Engineering, Culinary Arts, or other closely related field of study from an accredited institution; Masters’ degree preferred
•    Certification needed if applicable

EXPERIENCE AND SKILLS:
•    Minimum five (5) years related experience in food product development and benchtop prototype product development (i.e. formulation, cooking, freezing, portioning, packaging, labeling, specification development sensory evaluation and flavor profiling); experience with product development within the poultry industry preferred 
•    Minimum two (2) years’ supervisory experience including conflict resolution, coaching, and development
•    Demonstrated success in project management from inception, monitoring, follow-up through completion with the ability to manage multiple projects concurrently with focus on big picture impact and appropriate planning skills to meet deadlines
•    Knowledge of practical laboratory skills and basic understanding of statistics
•    Advanced mathematics and computer literacy
•    Must have good communication skills, both verbal and written, with the ability to communicate with all levels of the organization and in a timely and professional manner
•    Must possess a strong customer-centric attitude, high energy level and a strong sense of urgency

SAFETY REQUIREMENTS:
•    Follow departmental and company safety policies and programs
•    Wear required protective equipment in all areas where mandatory

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
•    May be required to lift up to 50 lbs occasionally
•    Ability to work extended or unusual shifts if needed (Weekend, holiday or extended) to meet deadlines
 

We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.