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Director of Research and Development

Atlantic Fish & Seafood is a high-growth processor to major grocers, distributors, public institutions, and as a private label co-manfucturing to leading brands in the US. We are seeking a Research and Development (R&D) Director who will lead development and execute plans for product development, including regulatory, formulation, formulation costing, specification development, and product labeling. This role works with production and the operations team to commercialize new products. The role will coordinate and collaborate with various departments within the organization to ensure that the company's research and development efforts are aligned with the overall business strategy and production capabilities of the company.

Core Responsibilities

In this hands-on role, develop and lead the R&D strategy aligned with company goals and market trends.
Provide technical expertise throughout all phases of New Product Development.
Ensure all products comply with USDC, FDA, USDA, and other regulatory standards.
Monitor food trends, consumer insights, and competitive products to identify innovation opportunities.
Oversee bench-top development through pilot plant testing and full-scale production.
Partner with Manufacturing to improve existing formulations, reduce costs, and enhance processing methods without compromising quality.
Work with Sales and Marketing to establish an Innovation strategy.
Interact with existing and prospective customers.
Investigate and implement cost reduction initiatives.
Cross-functional collaboration with Marketing, Sales, Supply Chain, Finance, Operations.
Supervise direct report to help them achieve department goals.
Support Quality and Manufacturing.
Performs all other duties, responsibilities, and special projects as assigned.

Core Skills and Requirements

Bachelor's or master’s degree preferrably in Food or Culinary Science, Food Engineering, or a related field.
Background or experience leading QA function preferred but not required.
R&D experience in the food manufacturing industry, with a strong emphasis on Seafood Processing.
Full understanding of CRF21 – food labeling, or ability to research related issues.
Background of solid GFSI requirements such as SQF and BRC.
Knowledge in MSC, ASC, and GFCO preferred.
Familiarity with food manufacturing equipment in a commercial setting
Knowledge of breaded, battered, and coated products.
Understanding of various food packaging processes and options.
Strong understanding of ingredient functionality and food safety protocols.
Experience with frozen product lines.
Effective communication skills.

Travel: Locally to Seafood Shows, and as needed to customers.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $105,000.00 - $150,000.00 per year

Benefits: