Research and Development Associate jobs in Hillsboro, OR

General Summary

The Research and Development (R&D) Director is responsible for directing day to day and short-term activities related to culinary development of new products or technologies and the commercialization of those products ensuring deliverables align with the Company’s strategic goals.

Benefits and Culture 

We offer a competitive compensation and benefits package designed to help employees live a healthier life, build rewarding careers and save for the future. Reser's offers choices whenever possible, because we recognize the diverse and ever changing needs of our employees. Full-time employee benefits include medical, dental, vision, AD&D, life, 401(k) with discretionary match, wellness programs, paid time off, company paid holidays and a variety of voluntary benefit options.

We strive to be your Employer of Choice. As one of our five cornerstones, this means that we go all-out to create an environment that shows we are committed to investing in employee growth and creating a culture of belonging where employees want to build a lasting career.

Visit our website to learn more about our competitive benefit programs - https://www.resers.com/careers/#benefits

Principle Duties and Responsibilities

1. Directs the Research & Development department to achieve new product development goals including the effective management of projects and budget.
2. Creates the R&D short term strategy for product portfolio in line with the long term and company strategy.
3. Design, coordinate and conduct tests to evaluate the feasibility, scalability and commercial viability of new culinary concepts and products.
4. Analyzes and solves problems regarding new product developments; works with Quality and Technical Services for troubleshooting as applicable.
5. Collaborates with sales, business development, technical service and production.
6. Conducts supervisory responsibilities including the selection, training and performance management of employees including Culinary, Commercialization and Project Management.

Job Specifications

1. 10 years’ experience in research and development in the food manufacturing industry with an advanced degree in chemistry, food science or similar disciplines preferred and 5 or more years’ experience managing others is required.
2. Strong background and knowledge in research and project management methodologies, technology development and product innovation.
3. Skilled in communication and balancing accountability for deliverables with the necessity of cross-functional collaborative teamwork across multiple departments including sales, marketing, purchasing, operations and production.
4. Demonstrates, promotes and exemplifies inspired leadership and commitment to staff development and growth by leveraging talents within the team.
5. Ability to excel and stay organized in a fast-paced environment managing multiple/concurrent unique projects and deadlines while ensuring details are not missed.

Working Conditions

1. Office Environment.
2. Travel up to 30% of the time.

This position is eligible for a bonus based on company goals/performance. 

Recipe for Success

Reser’s is the leading provider of fresh refrigerated deli salads, side dishes, and prepared foods for the supermarket, club store, and food service industries. Family owned and operated, Reser’s has been a proud sponsor of good times at racetracks, picnics, BBQs, music festivals, and affordable family meals since 1950. Reser’s family of brands include Reser’s American Classics, Main St Bistro, Stonemill Kitchens, and more. With more than 4,500 employees, Reser’s operates 14 facilities in the US, Mexico, and Canada and actively supports the communities it serves.