Product Development Specialist

Job Description

The Product Development Specialist will be responsible for the development of Garrett Brands products. This position will work closely with the Director of Product Innovation, Operations, Supply Chain and Marketing (among other departments) to align products with strategic goals. This position will also be responsible for refining existing programs to increase quality as well as drive cost and non-value added activities out of Garett Brands operations.

Principal Duties:

• Under the guidance of the Director of Product Innovation perform product development day-to-day functions for specific categories/sub-categories. Work independently to move projects through the process to meet the assigned goals.
• Responsible for creating and refining specifications for certain line extensions by developing multiple profiles/options for each concept and using a methodical approach to narrow down to the best alternatives.
• Facilitate internal sensory events including steps leading up to and following each event. Revise formulations based on associate feedback from sensory events.
• Perform competitive analysis and benchmarks. Procure and analyze samples as needed.
• Collaborate cross-functionally through each stage of the Product Development Process.
• Maintain all project details for assigned categories including quality control checks, spec development and documentation.
• Execute testing of commercialization phase of projects including operational phases of development, equipment programing, ingredient distribution flow, and portion controls.
• Communicate with vendors through the innovation process including manufacturing details to ensure all products meet quality standards for Garrett Brands.
  
  

Essential Functions:

• Ability to work well individually as well as in a team environment
• Excellent oral and written communication skills
• Excellent customer service skills
• Ability to work with little or no supervision
• Detail oriented and strong organizational skills
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Ability to handle multiple projects
• Excellent interpersonal skills
• Proven self-starter with demonstrated ability to make decisions
• Solid leadership skills
• Ability to evaluate and make recommendations on products or processes based on their sensorial attributes
• Ability to taste any and all food
• Strong sense of flavor perception and trends in the industry
  
  

Minimum Requirements :

• Degree in Food Science or Culinary Arts, Certified Culinary Scientist, Certified Research Chef, or related field preferred.
• 5 years of experience using a formal product development process or equivalent master’s degree field - related work
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite
• Experience with Genesis Nutrition Program a plus
• Experience with retail food and beverage with an emphasis on confections, preferred but not required
  
  

Company Description

At Garrett Popcorn Shops, we've maintained our dedication to fresh, delicious Popcorn since we first opened at 10 West Madison Street in Chicago. We continue to use only the highest quality ingredients from local producers as we handcraft our gourmet Popcorn in old-fashioned copper kettles. We strive to deliver the same Popcorn today that customers first talked about in 1949.

At Garrett Popcorn Shops, we've maintained our dedication to fresh, delicious Popcorn since we first opened at 10 West Madison Street in Chicago. We continue to use only the highest quality ingredients from local producers as we handcraft our gourmet Popcorn in old-fashioned copper kettles. We strive to deliver the same Popcorn today that customers first talked about in 1949.