Gum & Mint Product Innovation Scientist

Mars; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 75,000 - 102,000; Full time

Job summary

Mars is seeking an Associate Scientist to develop and execute new product formulations across Gum & Mints like Extra, Airwaves, and Hubba Bubba. You will translate consumer insights into tangible products from benchtop prototypes to factory scale-up.

This role requires a science background, lab/pilot plant experience, and the ability to manage multiple projects with cross-functional partners. Travel up to 15% is expected.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a scientific field is required.
• Hands-on experience in a food lab, test kitchen, or pilot plant environment.
• Solid project management and organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities.
• Strong problem-solving mindset and technical curiosity.
• Clear oral and written communication skills.
• Ability to travel up to 15%.
• 1–3 years of FMCG product development experience is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Design and test gum and mint formulations in lab and pilot plant, focusing on flavor release, texture, chew profile, sweetness longevity, and freshness.
• Lead the technical delivery of innovation, cost-optimization, and ingredient-continuity projects within timelines and budgets.
• Partner with manufacturing and factory innovation teams to test and validate formulations on full-scale production lines.
• Create and maintain raw material, recipe, and finished product specifications for quality, safety, and costing.
• Collaborate with Marketing, Supply Chain, Packaging, Quality, and Procurement to evaluate feasibility and launches.
• Apply scientific methods and root-cause analysis to troubleshoot recipe, stability, or processing issues.

Skills

Project management

Problem solving

Communication

Travel up to 15%

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Food Science, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or related field

Job description

Mars is seeking an Associate Scientist to develop and execute new product formulations across Gum & Mints like Extra, Airwaves, and Hubba Bubba. You will translate consumer insights into tangible products from benchtop prototypes to factory scale-up.

This role requires a science background, lab/pilot plant experience, and the ability to manage multiple projects with cross-functional partners. Travel up to 15% is expected.