Lead Food Scientist, Product Innovation

The J.M. Smucker Co.; Orrville (OH); Hybrid; USD 85,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

The J.M. Smucker Co. in Orrville, OH is seeking a Scientist, FH&S Product Development to lead formulation development for Uncrustables breads and sandwich products.

You will frame problems, design learning plans, and guide cross‑functional teams through lab, pilot plant, and scale‑up activities. You will apply statistical analysis and data governance to translate complex data into actionable business recommendations while collaborating across functions and driving technical readiness for

Qualifications

• Bachelor of Science in Food Science or other scientific discipline
• 5+ years of technical experience in R&D or related discipline, preference in Human Food, Bakery, and/or Snacks
• Strong foundation in food formulation, product development, process engineering, or related technical work
• Strong working knowledge of stage gate processes, product specifications, technical documentation, and data governance
• Ability to define experimental approaches, apply statistical analysis, and translate complex data into holistic recommendations
• Food safety foundation; PCQI training a plus
• Strong communicator who can connect technical findings to broader business considerations
• Independent problem solver who can lead complex work across disciplines and evaluate trade-offs
• Builds credibility across functions, coaches others in the discipline, and contributes to a strong technical community
• Uses data visualization and storytelling to influence decisions
• Demonstrates continuous learning and flexibility to support business needs, including hybrid work expectations

Responsibilities

• Lead formulation development for Uncrustables breads and sandwich products, integrating ingredient, formula, process, business, and market considerations.
• Frame complex business problems, define learning plans, and recommend clear solutions and paths forward.
• Serve as a project team member or technical lead on high- complexity initiatives with significant technical unknowns.
• Define experimental and research strategies; lead lab, pilot plant, scale-up, and manufacturing work; and guide execution.
• Interpret complex data holistically, apply cross‑disciplinary experience, and translate findings into actionable recommendations addressing technical, operational, and financial feasibility.
• Lead exploration of strategic technical advancements, including new platforms, methodologies, capabilities, and IP opportunities.
• Demonstrate technical readiness for complex initiatives, collaborate across functions and external networks, and influence project objectives.
• Guide technical documentation and data governance, support scientific methodologies, and coach others to strengthen formulation capability.

Skills

Food formulation

Process engineering

Data analysis

Statistical analysis

Project leadership

Cross-functional collaboration

Documentation & data governance

Education

Bachelor of Science in Food Science

Job description

The J.M. Smucker Co. in Orrville, OH is seeking a Scientist, FH&S Product Development to lead formulation development for Uncrustables breads and sandwich products.

You will frame problems, design learning plans, and guide cross‑functional teams through lab, pilot plant, and scale‑up activities. You will apply statistical analysis and data governance to translate complex data into actionable business recommendations while collaborating across functions and driving technical readiness for