Innovation and Product Development Specialist - Cheese

Agropur Cooperative; Quebec; On-site; CAD 88,000 - 110,000; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

Maternity leave replacement

Group insurance plan

Employee assistance program

Career development

Job summary

Agropur Cooperative in Quebec is seeking an Innovation and Product Development Specialist to plan, coordinate and lead product and process innovations. You will work closely with customers and cross-functional teams to develop innovative dairy products at a competitive cost, from ideation to commercialization.

The role requires a Bachelor's degree in a related field, 3 years of experience in R&D/Product Development in food manufacturing, and strong French/English communication.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in relevant field is required
• Minimum 3 years of experience in R&D or Product Development within a food manufacturing environment
• Relevant dairy industry experience is an asset
• Strong written and verbal communication in French and English required

Responsibilities

• Plan, coordinate and participate in product and process innovation activities and product development projects.
• Lead projects related to innovation, cost reduction, portfolio optimization and new product development.
• Provide technical support to category teams and manufacturing sites; collaborate with internal and external stakeholders.
• Ensure compliance with stage-gate processes; conduct laboratory work, pilot trials and qualification activities.
• Create and maintain product specifications and formulations; participate in sensory evaluations.
• Collaborate with suppliers and customers to drive cost reductions and product performance improvements.

Skills

Bilingual (French/English)

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Food Science and Technology, Biotechnology Engineering, Microbiology, Nutritional Sciences, Pharmaceutical Sciences, or related field

Job description

Job Type: Temporary (Durée déterminée)

People are at the heart of our success. Our culture encourages collaboration, transparency, and accountability in order to generate value and achieve sustainable results. Being part of the team means committing to an environment where everyone’s impact truly matters. At Agropur, accountability means owning challenges and taking concrete action to achieve results. ‘An environment that empowers you to take action: ’

Salary range 005: $88,300 à $110,400 (Salary will be determined based on skills, education, training & experience related to the position.)

Benefits

• Maternity leave replacement
• Group insurance plan
• Employee assistance program
• Opportunities to invest in yourself (career development, etc.)

What you’ll be responsible for each day:

The Innovation and Product Development Specialist is responsible for planning, coordinating, and participating in product and process innovation activities, product development, and technical services. The incumbent leads assigned projects related to innovation, cost reduction, portfolio optimization, and new product development, with the objective of bringing innovative products to market at a competitive cost. This individual also works closely with customers to address inquiries and technical needs while collaborating cross-functionally with internal and external stakeholders. In addition, the Specialist provides technical support to category teams and manufacturing sites for initiatives aimed at reducing costs and optimizing manufacturing process performance, while maintaining or improving product functionality, quality, and performance. Design, plan, oversee, and execute assigned product development processes and projects, ensuring compliance with applicable procedures and stage-gate requirements, from ideation through commercialization. Lead innovation and product development activities aligned with category strategies to create new food products or enhance existing ones. Execute all applicable stages of product and process development, including laboratory work, pilot trials, plant trials, and qualification activities at manufacturing sites. Create and maintain product specifications and formulations, including product characteristics, ingredient declarations, costs, processing parameters, and analytical requirements. Participate in sensory evaluations using both internal and external sensory panels. Work closely with R&D laboratory technologists and collaborate with internal stakeholders, serving as a technical expert for departments such as Marketing, Operations, Regulatory Affairs, Engineering, and Procurement. Collaborate closely with external suppliers of goods and services for sourcing, evaluation, and qualification activities while adhering to company best practices. Partner with B2B customers, including private label customers, industrial clients, and co-manufacturers. Identify and drive opportunities for cost reduction and product or process performance optimization. Liaise and collaborate with manufacturing plants to investigate and resolve product issues, operational challenges, and customer complaints. Identify and evaluate new technologies and processes that may enable key innovations and support participation in research and development projects. Ensure compliance with applicable laws, regulations, and regulatory requirements in collaboration with the Regulatory Affairs team.

The individual who will own this role

A Bachelor’s degree in Food Science and Technology, Biotechnology Engineering, Microbiology, Nutritional Sciences, Pharmaceutical Sciences, or another related field is required. A minimum of three (3) years of experience in Research & Development or Product Development within a food manufacturing environment is required. Relevant experience in the dairy industry is considered an asset. An equivalent combination of education and/or experience may be considered. Strong written and verbal communication skills in both French and English are required. English is necessary to collaborate with colleagues and customers located in other Canadian provinces. An environment that values engagement and encourages everyone to take initiative.

Agropur welcomes people from all backgrounds and origins. We are proud to be an employer with a diverse community and are committed to providing a respectful and inclusive experience for all employees and applicants. We will work with candidates who request accommodation. Please note that an adequate knowledge of French is required for positions in Quebec. Agropur is an E-Verify Employer (US Operations).