What are the responsibilities and job description for the New Product Development Analyst position at Fresh Del Monte?
***Position can be located in either Dallas, or Houston***
Purpose of Position
We are seeking a Food Science Analyst to join our New Product Development (NPD) team. This role will support the formulation, testing, and commercialization of innovative food and fresh-cut fruit products. The ideal candidate has a strong background in food science, product development, and quality assurance. They will work cross-functionally with QA, production, procurement, marketing, and food safety teams to ensure new products meet consumer expectations, quality standards, and regulatory requirements.
Accountabilities:
- NPD product formulation, including iterative testing in a food-safe environment to optimize ingredients for sensorial and shelf-life objectives.
- Conduct sensory and shelf-life testing to assess product quality, flavor retention, and microbial stability.
- Research and analyze in-market products, performing reverse-engineering of competitor formulations to identify innovation opportunities.
- Ensure NPD processing and operational efficiencies, collaborating with production teams to streamline scale-up processes.
- Prepare prototypes and mock-up samples for internal evaluations, consumer testing, and sales presentations.
- Conduct analytical testing (e.g., pH, Brix, organoleptic) to assess product performance and ensure food quality and safety.
- Research and test new ingredients, processing techniques, and preservation methods to enhance product quality and extend shelf life.
- Work with suppliers and vendors to source high-quality raw materials for product development.
- Maintain a food and ingredient inventory for NPD purposes, ensuring materials are available for ongoing trials.
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure new products align with food safety regulations, labeling requirements, and industry standards.
- Support sensory evaluation panels and consumer testing to optimize product flavor, texture, and appearance.
- Document testing results, prepare reports, and present findings to internal stakeholders
- Proactively brings thoughtful product recommendations to cross-functional teams that drive brand and business results.
- Ability to substantiate recommendations with research, reasoning, and data.
- Ability to work closely with suppliers in developing and improving their processes to achieve commercial viability of products.
- Fosters an innovative, curiosity-inspired, food-forward mindset in the organization.
Minimum Skills Required:
- 1-3 years of work experience in food/beverage product/process development, quality assurance, or R&D. (fresh produce experience a plus)
- Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Food Technology, Microbiology, or a related field.
- Strong Knowledge of food processing, ingredient functionality, and packaging technologies.
- Strong analytical skills with experience in food testing methodologies (e.g., microbiological, chemical, and physical testing).
- Familiarity with food science equipment required
- Experience with consumer insights, culinary innovation, and nutrition.
- Familiarity with HACCP, GMPs, FDA, USDA, and other food safety regulations.
- Ability to work in a fast-paced environment, manage multiple projects, and meet deadlines.
- Excellent problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and teamwork capabilities.
***Please note: This position does not qualify for relocation expenses. ***
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DEL MONTE FRESH PRODUCE IS AN EEO/AA/V/H
