Senior Food Scientist, Product Development & Innovation

The J.M. Smucker Company; Cleveland (OH); Hybrid; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

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

You will frame complex technical challenges, design learning plans, and translate findings into practical solutions that balance science, operations, and market needs. This role requires a BS in Food Science or related field, 5+ years in R&D, strong data analysis, knowledge of stage-gate processes, and the ability to influence

Qualifications

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

Responsibilities

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

Skills

Food formulation

Product development

Process engineering

Statistical analysis

Data governance

PCQI training

Communication

Cross-functional leadership

Hybrid work adaptability

Education

B.S. in Food Science

Job description

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

You will frame complex technical challenges, design learning plans, and translate findings into practical solutions that balance science, operations, and market needs. This role requires a BS in Food Science or related field, 5+ years in R&D, strong data analysis, knowledge of stage-gate processes, and the ability to influence