Product Development Specialist Jobs

Job Title: Product Development Specialist

Location: Toronto, Ontario

About Us:

We are proud to say we are one of Forbes 2022 Canada’s Best Employers; here’s why!

Lactalis Canada is enriching and nurturing the lives of Canadians with a diverse offering of dairy products such as Black Diamond Cheese, Lactantia Milk, Astro Yogurt, Balderson Cheese, and Cheestrings; our products are in 94% of Canadian homes! For over 140 years we’ve grown through innovation and a strong dedication to quality, and we’re looking for like minded individuals to keep that growth progressing by joining our team!

About the opportunity:

The Product Development Specialist designs and executes experiments in the development of new products and/or innovation and/or renovation projects under limited supervision and with guidance from the Research Manager and/or Director. Responsible for providing specialized knowledge in the areas of fluid milk, cream and ice cream technology, food & dairy science, problem resolution and project implementation to optimize manufacturing and support company business objectives.

The attributes we are looking for:

· Co-ordinate the planning and execution of bench top and/or pilot plant experiments in the development of new products and/or product renovations by providing input for the experimental plan and conducting experiments, producing documentation, and providing conclusions.

· Conduct product development stages including operation of pilot-scale dairy processing equipment, and formula commissioning at full-scale manufacturing, which includes scale-up of prototypes and subsequent trials to support introduction of new products and /or product renovations.

· Support the implementation of manufacturing projects

· Review and document raw ingredients, formulations, and final product specifications for the purpose of maintaining accurate records and to ensure compliance with Company standards. Provide approved claims for the finished product specifications that ensure market compliance.

· Comprehensive communication of technical information for product improvements and/or cost savings initiatives to internal customers (i.e. Purchasing, Marketing, Operations, and Quality Assurance)

· Consult technical resources (literature, technical papers, and academia) to further product knowledge and apply the learning to projects.

· Responsible to ensure Quality is fundamental in execution of all work activities and work in compliance to Lactalis Quality Systems

What you will bring:

· University degree in Food Science, Microbiology, Chemistry, or related discipline

· College diploma in related discipline

· Three (3) to five (5) years experience in dairy or food industry

· Knowledge of dairy products and their functionality

· Creative problem solving skills, development and performance of bench-top and pilot plant experiments to achieve the solution

· Ability to apply theories and practice of chemistry/food science/microbiology to improve processes and develop new innovative products.

· Ability to produce accurate documents of experiments in support of Company standards and SR&ED tax credits

· Strong written and interpersonal/communication skills with internal and external sources for technical information and ingredient assistance

· Ability to organize and report results using a variety of computer applications (Excel, Microsoft Word, Lotus Notes, Nutritional programs - Genesis)

· Ability to effectively handle multiple projects and the assignments of priorities within the defined project area

· General knowledge of food and government regulations related to the dairy industry and labeling

What Lactalis will offer:

Lactalis Canada believes in rewarding its people with the following comprehensive benefits package and perks:

· Competitive Compensation packages

· A Performance-Based Bonus System

· 4 Weeks of Vacation

· Comprehensive extended Health and Dental Benefits effective day 1

· A Pension Program with an Employer Match at 100% of up to 6%

· Tuition reimbursement plan of up to $3,000/year

· A Volunteer Day to give back to your community

· Learning and Development opportunities

· A commitment to internal career advancement with potential for international mobility

· Maternity / Adoption / Parental top up program

· Flexible work arrangements

· Dress for your day culture

· Paid bereavement and jury duty time off

· Paid leave to an employee for either an application or confirmation of citizenship

· Flexibility for course examination

Diversity, Equity & Inclusion/EOE

Bring Your Uniqueness to Grow Our Culture

We believe each and every individual within the organization provides value. When we encourage and include the voices of all diverse backgrounds and perspectives, we open doors to unforeseen growth and allow individuals to bring their full authentic selves to work. In order to celebrate the uniqueness of our people and the communities in which we operate, we are committed to cultivating a fair and inclusive workplace that fosters real belonging for all.

Lactalis is also committed to developing inclusive, barrier-free selection processes and work environments. If contacted in relation to a job opportunity or testing, you should advise the member of the Talent Acquisition team in a timely fashion of any disabilities that requires accommodation measures in order to enable you to be assessed in a fair and equitable manner.

Information received relating to accommodation measures will be addressed confidentially.

Please note Lactalis Canada does not request a credit check or conduct other background checks through the LinkedIn application process. If any of the foregoing is required, a Lactalis Canada employee will contact you after a Job Offer has been signed by you.