Innovative Beverage R&D Scientist

Finlays Group; San Antonio (TX); On-site; USD 70,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

Finlays Group seeks an R&D Scientist to drive new extract and concentrate development from concept to commercialization in our San Antonio facility. You will support cost savings and product improvements, working hands-on with cross-functional teams and customers to deliver scalable beverage solutions.

The role emphasizes developing prototypes, conducting shelf-life studies, and leading sensory panels, with travel to client sites and Finlays facilities as needed.

Qualifications

• Minimum Bachelor’s degree in Food Science or related field with 2+ years of experience OR 5+ years of experience in a related science/field within the food industry.
• Knowledge of HACCP, GMP, regulatory, and labelling laws.
• Understand analytical parameters necessary for specification development and shelf-life analysis.
• New product development and stage-gate product launch experience.
• Ability to taste differences in products; good sense of smell and taste; capacity to assess color variations.
• Work effectively independently as well as part of cross functional teams.

Responsibilities

• Develop beverage prototypes from concept to commercialization with documented formulations.
• Conduct shelf-life stability trials and document sensory/analytical changes.
• Collaborate with external applications to develop DOE of new processes and ingredient tech.
• Pass sensory training, support coffee cuppings, and run descriptive panels.
• Serve as R&D lead for key accounts and develop new innovative products.
• Produce lab benchtop samples and manage ERP data and formula approvals for launches.
• Travel to Finlays facilities, customers, suppliers, and trade shows as needed.

Skills

HACCP knowledge

GMP knowledge

Regulatory knowledge

Labelling laws

Shelf-life analysis

New product development

Sensory evaluation

Cross-functional teamwork

Clear communication

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Food Science or related field

Job description

Finlays Group seeks an R&D Scientist to drive new extract and concentrate development from concept to commercialization in our San Antonio facility. You will support cost savings and product improvements, working hands-on with cross-functional teams and customers to deliver scalable beverage solutions.

The role emphasizes developing prototypes, conducting shelf-life studies, and leading sensory panels, with travel to client sites and Finlays facilities as needed.