Research And Development Manager

Kinsa Group; Portland (ME); On-site; USD 110,000 - 130,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

401(k)

PTO & holiday pay

Relocation assistance

Job summary

Kinsa Group is seeking an R&D/FSQA Manager in Portland, Maine to lead innovation in pet nutrition products. This role requires a strong background in food science and quality assurance. The ideal candidate will have over three years of experience in food product development and FSQA, coupled with leadership experience. Responsibilities include managing the R&D/QA teams, ensuring compliance with safety regulations, and driving the product development lifecycle from ideation to launch. A competitive salary package and relocation assistance are offered.

Qualifications

• 3+ years of food product development experience.
• 3+ years of FSQA experience.
• 2+ years of leadership experience.

Responsibilities

• Set and execute R&D and QA strategies aligned with business goals.
• Lead product development from concept through commercialization.
• Manage and mentor the R&D/QA team to drive innovation.

Skills

Leadership

Innovation in product development

Regulatory compliance

Education

Bachelor’s degree in food science or microbiology

Tools

HACCP

SQF certification

Job description

Kinsa is recruiting for a: R&D/FSQA Manager

Location: Portland, Maine (Onsite, commutable from Northern Boston)

Our client is a smaller, growing company that makes innovative pet nutrition products. As the R&D/FSQA Manager, you will provide leadership and direction on R&D and QA, driving innovation and excellence in product development and quality assurance processes. In this position, you will champion the product development lifecycle, from ideation and concept development through to product launch and post-market surveillance, while ensuring compliance with regulatory standards and customer expectations.

• Food science or microbiology degree preferred. 3+ years of food product development, 3+ years of FSQA, 2+ years of leadership.
• $110-130k base salary plus generous annual bonus potential.
• 401(k)
• PTO & holiday pay
• Relocation assistance available

Key Responsibilities and Goals:

• Set and execute R&D and QA strategies aligned with business goals.
• Lead product development from concept through commercialization.
• Manage and mentor the R&D/QA team to drive innovation and continuous improvement.
• Ensure product quality, safety, and regulatory compliance. Establish and monitor quality systems, metrics, and KPIs.
• Partner cross functionally to translate customer and market needs into solutions.
• Serve as SQF Practitioner and maintain the SQF program, including all registrations and approvals.

Competencies Needed for Success:

• Bachelor’s degree in food science, nutrition or related field preferred.
• 3+ years of food product development (full spectrum)
• 3+ years of FSQA experience
• 2+ years of leadership
• SQF certification, HACCP experience.