Careers
R&D Product Development Manager
Ready to take your
career to the next level?
Imagine working in a cutting-edge, brand-new facility where engineering,
automation, and modern technology seamlessly come together. At AFF, you won’t
just witness innovation—you’ll be part of it. We’re one of the fastest-growing
companies of the last decade, and we’re just getting started. Our commitment to
excellence, strong family-oriented culture, and passion for hiring top talent
make AFF a standout place to build your future.
General Description of Duties
Are you a creative thinker with a passion for turning ideas into delicious reality? As our R&D Product Development Manager, you’ll be at the heart of innovation in the beverage world — leading the charge in crafting juice concentrates, flavor bases, and beverage blends that wow customers and set industry trends.
This isn’t just a lab job — it’s a leadership role where science meets artistry. You’ll guide a talented team of chemists and technicians, collaborate with cross-functional departments, and work directly with customers to bring bold, exciting products to life. From concept to shelf, you’ll oversee formulation, testing, costing, and quality — ensuring every sip is a success.
If you love blending creativity with chemistry and want to make a real impact in a fast-paced, flavor-forward environment, we’d love to meet you!
General Role Overview: The R&D Product Development Manager leads the development and enhancement of new and existing products, primarily in the beverage sector (e.g., juice concentrates, flavor bases). This role involves overseeing formulation, testing, costing, and customer alignment while managing a team of chemists and lab technicians. The manager ensures all products meet quality and safety standards and collaborates cross-functionally with internal departments and external clients.
Key Responsibilities
- Product Development Leadership:
- Manage all product development projects.
- Independently develop new or improved products based on customer or internal requirements.
- Evaluate feasibility based on production capabilities and resources.
- Team Management:
- Supervise and support R&D chemists and lab technicians.
- Provide guidance, direction, and mentorship.
- Technical & Customer Collaboration:
- Communicate with customer technical teams to understand and meet product requirements.
- Provide on-site support during first-time productions and troubleshooting.
- Documentation & Compliance:
- Review and approve master formulas, compounding instructions, and product specifications.
- Ensure compliance with SQF (Safe Quality Food) standards.
- Costing & Pricing:
- Perform cost analysis and recommend selling prices for developed products.
- Cross-Functional Coordination:
- Maintain strong relationships with Quality Control, Analytical, Production, and other departments.
Qualifications
Who you are: An innovative and detail-oriented professional, driven by a passion for scientific discovery and product excellence. With a strong foundation in formulation, analytical testing, and cross-functional collaboration, who thrives in fast-paced environments where creativity meets precision. Committed to developing high-quality, compliant products that meet customer needs and push the boundaries of what's possible in food and beverage science.
- Education:
- Bachelor’s degree in Food Science Technology, Nutrition, or a related field.
- Experience:
- Minimum 4 years in a supervisory or managerial role, with relevant training.
- Skills & Requirements:
- Strong sensory acuity (taste/aroma).
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office and algebra-level math.
- Effective English communication skills (written and verbal).
- Flexibility to report to any company facility, with primary location in San Fernando.