What are the responsibilities and job description for the Product Improvement Specialist position at Mercola?
Summary
The Product Improvement Specialist will be coordinating the product development process for changes and reformulations of existing products from initiation to launch, both internally and externally with manufacturers and suppliers. This position is a great opportunity for a person looking to kick start or advance their career in Product Development/R&D in the Natural Products Industry, or a recent graduate in Nutritional Science, Food Science or other relevant degree.
Key Responsibilities & Duties
The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS
The Product Improvement Specialist will be coordinating the product development process for changes and reformulations of existing products from initiation to launch, both internally and externally with manufacturers and suppliers. This position is a great opportunity for a person looking to kick start or advance their career in Product Development/R&D in the Natural Products Industry, or a recent graduate in Nutritional Science, Food Science or other relevant degree.
Key Responsibilities & Duties
- Review and initiate improvements for existing products.
- Oversee product formulation updates with vendors.
- Source new and innovative ingredients; review ingredients to ensure they meet specifications.
- Maintain professional and positive vendor relationships.
- Coordinate with other departments to prioritize product updates and adhere to deadlines to limit out-of-stock situations.
- Coordinate cross-department on product updates through compliance, label, and marketing material.
- Oversee multiple projects simultaneously and manage them through their life cycle from initiation to launch.
- Review marketing materials for accuracy and proper emphasis.
- Analyze current product pricing against the changing market and suggest updates.
- Maintain electronic records with status of all concepts and development projects.
- Occasional travel may be required (approx. twice a year).
- Other duties as assigned.
- Project Management skills, Project Management Certification is a plus.
- Open to collaboration with group, other perspectives and easy to work with.
- Excellent organizational skills.
- Multi-tasking.
- Strong math skills.
- Driven, determined, enthusiastic and persistent.
- Ability to work with and adapt to changes.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and experience with data analysis tools.
- 1 to 3 years’ experience in the natural products space, or relevant Associate or Bachelor of Science Degree.
- Proactive and innovative professional with strong technical expertise and project management skills.
- Possess a creative and analytical mindset, are highly organized, and excel in cross-functional collaboration.
- Deep understanding of customer needs, adaptable in a fast-paced environment, and demonstrates strong communication abilities.
- Driven, curious, and a team player with high ethical standards.
The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS
- Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
- Frequent use of standard office equipment, such as computers, phones, printers, and copiers.
- Occasional lifting of office supplies and equipment, typically up to 20 pounds.
- Good vision and hearing are necessary for reading detailed product specifications, observing product features, and communicating with team members.
Salary : $60,000 - $75,000
