Now Hiring - iLocatum Staffing - Senior Food Technologist - Product Development in Elk Grove, CA

Full description of the position

Senior Food Technologist Elk Grove, CA Must Haves: * Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Biology, Chemistry , or related field (Master 's preferred) * 3 -5 years of experience in fresh or frozen baked goods or food product development * Proven expertise in formulation science, process improvement, and commercialization * Strong background in food manufacturing and plant operations * Experience leading cross-functional teams and managing product launches from concept to commercialization * Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills * Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and data/reporting systems Position Summary: The Senior Food Technologist will play a key role in driving innovation, optimization, and technical advancement initiatives across the tortilla category and related product lines. This position is ideal for a hands-on, technically skilled professional who thrives on developing new products, improving processes, and mentoring others. You will lead complex R&D projects, translate customer needs into actionable development plans, and serve as the technical bridge between R &D, Operations, Quality, and Commercial teams. Key Responsibilities: * Lead the development and implementation of new and innovative food products, ensuring alignment with company goals and customer requirements * Translate customer and marketing requests into detailed product development and commercialization strategies * Oversee and analyze shelf-life testing , ensuring data accuracy and actionable conclusions * Supervise product trials , ingredient batching, and process validation with technical oversight * Manage and maintain documentation for all R&D activities, ensuring data integrity * Validate manufacturing processes during plant trials and provide improvement feedback * Conduct and interpret post-test analyses to guide process optimization and efficiency * Lead sensory evaluations and facilitate cross-functional interpretation of results * Ensure regulatory compliance , accurate nutrition labeling , and complete technical documentation * Support cost optimization , line extensions , and continuous improvement initiatives * Collaborate with Sales and Marketing teams on technical support and product feasibility assessments * Mentor and train junior technologists in formulation, testing, and commercialization best practices * Support sustainability and quality initiatives within the product innovation pipeline * Flexibility to work non-standard hours and travel for product launches or technical validations What You 'll Bring: * Deep technical expertise in food formulation and manufacturing * Ability to manage multiple R&D projects independently * Strong leadership and mentoring skills * A collaborative, solution-oriented approach to problem-solving * A passion for innovation and delivering best-in-class products