Sr Product Development Scientist

Grow with Welch's!

Welch's is on a journey towards our bold ambition of being the global-leader of convenient, good for you fruit-based food and beverages. To turn this goal into a reality we need you and other exceptionally talented, agile, and innovative individuals who are eager to contribute to something extraordinary!

At Welch's, we're not just offering a job; we're inviting you to be a part of a vibrant, authentic, and inclusive culture where you not only belong, but also have the opportunity to unleash the best, most authentic version of you.

Position Summary:

We're looking for a Senior Product Development Scientist to work with Research & Development and cross-functional teams to lead and execute innovation projects across and beyond our growing portfolio of beverages and fruit-based spreads. You'll also assist with daily business operations by providing technical support when needed.

Where You'll Work

This role will be based out of our Concord, MA headquarters where you will be immersed in a dynamic workplace where innovation thrives and collaboration is key.

Our company in-office schedule is designed to maximize collaboration & relationship building balanced with flexibility and well-being with 3 days in office and Thursdays/Friday being remote, flex days.

***Welch's is moving to a brand new, state of the art space in Waltham, MA June 2025***

What You'll Do:

• Lead and execute product innovation projects, from ideation through bench top prototyping, testing & validation, commercialization and launch
• Identify creative solutions and influence key stakeholders during the new product development process
• Conduct experimental design and lead execution of bench top, pilot plant and plant trials
• Provide technical support and address inquiries on existing specifications, ingredients or products from Procurement, Quality, Manufacturing or Sales
• Actively influence and participate in consumer research sessions in collaboration with Marketing and Consumer Insights
• Serve as the R&D lead for the qualification and approval of new sources for existing ingredients
• Collaborate with cross functional teams including QA, Plant Operations, Marketing, Finance and Supply Chain to meet project goals
• Create and review specifications throughout the NPD cycle for applicable projects (e.g. raw material, nutritional, formulation, manufacturing, and finished product specifications)
• Direct the activities of external vendors including ingredients and service providers

Who You Are:

• Technically deep and curious; enjoys challenges and problem solving
• Able to handle project ambiguity and work with minimal direction
• Hands on, resourceful and decisive; seeks practical approaches with a bias for action to quickly build and demonstrate new ideas and concepts
• Applies a growth mindset through continuous experimentation and learning
• Works relentlessly to overachieve, anticipate obstacles, and creates plans to overcome them
• Adapts easily to changing priorities and direction based on new project learnings
• Able to think beyond own function and consider business priorities holistically

What You'll Need:

• Minimum of 5 years of proven New Product Development track record from ideation through commercialization, with successful new product launches in the Food & Beverage market preferred
• A Bachelors degree in Food Science, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or related fields. Masters preferred
• Demonstrate awareness and practice of safety procedures, GMPs, food regulations, and the implications for product development
• Management of external resources like suppliers, co-manufacturers and testing labs
• Technical leadership of project commercialization, scale up and launch
• Good time management skills and ability to concurrently lead multiple projects
• Excellent analytical skills, strong attention to detail, good communication and interpersonal skills
• General knowledge of food & beverage processing and filling equipment
• Understanding of project management principles
• Availability to travel up to 15% based on project requirements

PREFERRED:

• Experienced Influencing and leading within Cross-functional teams
• Experience in Beverages or Fruits / Vegetables Juices formulation
• Creative thinker with a passion for consumer co-design and early-stage product development

At Welch's we value diversity, a passion for what you do, and a commitment to continuous learning. Even if you do not feel you meet every requirement listed, but this role aligns with your strengths and goals we encourage you to apply. Join us and contribute to something extraordinary.

Welch's is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. We recognize the importance of diversity in hiring and building a dynamic, strong workforce. We are committed to the prevention of employment discrimination based on race, religion, color, sex, gender identity, national origin, age, marital status, disability and/or military or veteran status, sexual orientation or any other action covered by federal or applicable state/local laws.

What You'll Enjoy:

• Organization with a bold, clear purpose & vision for the future
• Inclusive Culture: Be a part of an inclusive workplace where you not only belong but also have the opportunity to be the best version of yourself
• Passionate Community: You are encouraged to have a voice, share your opinions, and have individual impact on the success of the business
• Hybrid work model: Flexible & collaborative work environment to maximize well-being & success
• Paid Time Off and Holidays: Available immediately for you to enjoy time away from the office to rest and recharge
• Paid Volunteer Time Off: 40 hours of paid volunteer time for all non-union employees
• Development & Advancement: Access to LinkedIn Learning as well as both formal and informal opportunities to develop and grow your career
• Compensation Package Consisting of Competitive Base Salary and Annual Incentive Plan (Bonus)
• 401K plan with Generous Company Match
• Flexible Benefits from your first day: Choose the benefits that meet your needs and preferences
  • Health, Dental & Vision Insurance
  • Health Savings Accounts
  • Life and accident insurance
  • Employee Assistance Programs
  • Tuition reimbursement program
  • Additional benefits available through Perks at Work
• Paid parental (and adoption) leave - Available after 12 months of employment

Welch's offers more than just a job - it's an opportunity to grow, innovate, and make a global impact with a passionate community.

#LI-HYBRID