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Bakery Research Development Manager Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Research & Development Manager

Santa Monica, CA ยท On-site

$135K - $165K/yr

Your Role The Research & Development Manager is responsible for supporting the execution of product development for both new product initiatives and portfolio maintenance efforts that accelerate O ...

Research & Development Manager

Santa Monica, CA ยท On-site

$135K - $165K/yr

Your Role The Research & Development Manager is responsible for supporting the execution of product development for both new product initiatives and portfolio maintenance efforts that accelerate O ...

Research & Development Manager

Walnut Creek, CA ยท On-site

$130K - $150K/yr

The Manager, Research & Development will be responsible for supporting the development and execution of new and improved products across retail, club, and foodservice channels. This role will drive ...

Research & Development Manager

Walnut Creek, CA ยท On-site

$130K - $150K/yr

The Manager, Research & Development will be responsible for supporting the development and execution of new and improved products across retail, club, and foodservice channels. This role will drive ...

The Manager, Research & Development will be responsible for supporting the development and execution of new and improved products across retail, club, and foodservice channels. This role will drive ...

Research & Development Manager

Walnut Creek, CA ยท On-site

$130K - $150K/yr

The Manager, Research & Development will be responsible for supporting the development and execution of new and improved products across retail, club, and foodservice channels. This role will drive ...

R&D Manager

Watertown, NY ยท On-site

$115K - $135K/yr

Manage and direct R&D activities concerned with development, application, and maintenance of all product lines associated with Knowlton. SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES : The Research and Development ...

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Bakery Research Development Manager information

See salary details

$48.5K

$101.8K

$165K

How much do bakery research development manager jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for bakery research development manager in the United States is $101,794.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $77,500.00 and $116,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by a Bakery Research Development Manager when introducing new products to the market?

A Bakery Research Development Manager often encounters challenges such as aligning innovative product concepts with production capabilities, meeting strict food safety and quality standards, and ensuring that new products cater to evolving consumer preferences. Balancing creativity with cost-effectiveness is also key, as is close collaboration with marketing, production, and supply chain teams to ensure a seamless launch. Additionally, adapting recipes for large-scale manufacturing without compromising taste or texture can be a complex but rewarding aspect of the role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Bakery Research Development Manager, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Bakery Research Development Manager, you need expertise in food science, product development, and bakery processes, often supported by a degree in food technology or a related field. Familiarity with laboratory testing equipment, product formulation software, and regulatory compliance systems is crucial. Strong project management, creativity, and effective communication skills help you lead cross-functional teams and drive innovation. These skills and qualities are essential for developing market-ready bakery products that meet quality, safety, and consumer expectations.

What does a Bakery Research Development Manager do?

A Bakery Research Development Manager is responsible for leading the development and improvement of bakery products. They oversee the creation of new recipes, ensure compliance with food safety regulations, and collaborate with production teams to optimize processes. Their role also involves analyzing market trends, conducting product testing, and managing projects from concept to launch. Ultimately, they help bakeries innovate and stay competitive by introducing appealing and high-quality baked goods.

What is the difference between Bakery Research Development Manager vs Bakery Product Developer?

AspectBakery Research Development ManagerBakery Product Developer
CredentialsBachelor's degree in food science, bakery technology, or related field; often with experience in R&DSimilar educational background; focus on product creation and formulation
Work EnvironmentOversees R&D teams, laboratory work, and project management within bakery companiesPrimarily involved in product formulation, testing, and recipe development, often in a lab or test kitchen
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by large bakery firms, food manufacturers, and R&D departmentsCommonly used by bakery startups, food companies, and product innovation teams

While both roles require a background in food science and focus on bakery products, the Bakery Research Development Manager typically oversees R&D teams and manages projects, whereas the Bakery Product Developer concentrates on creating and testing new recipes. Both roles are essential for bakery innovation but differ in scope and responsibilities.

More about Bakery Research Development Manager jobs
What cities are hiring for Bakery Research Development Manager jobs? Cities with the most Bakery Research Development Manager job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Bakery Research Development jobs? The most popular types of Bakery Research Development jobs are:
What states have the most Bakery Research Development Manager jobs? States with the most job openings for Bakery Research Development Manager jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Bakery Research Development Manager jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Bakery Research Development Manager jobs are:
Infographic showing various Bakery Research Development Manager job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, and 6% Part Time. Highlights an 94% In-person, and 6% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $101,794 per year, or $48.9 per hour.

Research & Development Manager

O Positiv

Santa Monica, CA โ€ข On-site

$135K - $165K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 27 days ago


Job description

Your Role

The Research & Development Manager is responsible for supporting the execution of product development for both new product initiatives and portfolio maintenance efforts that accelerate O Positiv's growth. You will be part of the creation of OP's rapidly growing product line and new offerings in women's health, wellness and more.

The ideal candidate is an individual with a strong scientific research background, a high level of organization among competing priorities, and a natural curiosity with a willingness to learn. The Research & Development Manager will report to the Director of Product Development and will work cross functionally with internal and external stakeholders to support innovation and execution of O Positiv's product roadmap.

Responsibilities and Duties

  • Bring innovative and differentiated products from concept to market that support our core customers' health goals and align with O Positiv's commitments / standards
  • Conduct ingredient research / literature reviews; identify novel ingredients and formats to explore / evaluate for product feasibility
  • Stay up to date to new trends in ingredients (vitamins, minerals, herbs, etc.) relevant to OP's product roadmap and concept designs
  • Substantiate claims by composing comprehensive summaries of clinical research that support product claims
  • Manage project coordination in tracking, expediting, and facilitating the progress of each product's development through the product's launch date
  • Assist with the artwork development process to proof and ensure proper routing and compliance to regulatory requirements
  • Provide scientific support on marketing campaigns, landing pages, and other customer-facing literature
  • Provide feedback on samples submissions and ensure formulations meet OP's specifications, are efficacious and fall within budget requirements
  • Support the reformulation of existing products to ensure products continue to be differentiated and meet marketing and customer expectations

Qualifications and Skills

  • Experience:
    • Bachelor's Degree or equivalent work experience in Science (e.g. Biochemistry, Chemical Engineering, etc.), Food Science, Pharmaceutical Science or related field
    • 3-6 years of experience working in product development, R&D, and/or regulatory affairs within the functional foods, supplements, or skincare industry
    • Exceptional expertise in technical research including ingredient pathology, project management, and vendor relationship management
  • ย Interpersonal:
    • Strong leadership & communication skills: listen, mentor, and teach by example
    • Thrives in fast-paced environments
    • Strong project management and prioritization skills
    • Ability to manage multiple moving pieces and lead different groups of individuals
    • Adaptable to new technology and innovations
    • Thoughtful and self-reflective, willingness to learn and adapt
    • Team-player, hard-working, organized, and goal-oriented
    • Excitement for startups and building from the ground up

Applicantsย mustย beย currentlyย authorizedย toย workย inย theย Unitedย Statesย onย aย full-timeย basis.

Hours and Compensation

The anticipated base compensation range for this role will be $135,000 - $165,000 annually. Compensation will be commensurate with the candidate's experience and local market rates.ย 

  • Job Type: Full-timeย 
  • Pay based on prior experience
  • Position will be based out of Santa Monica, Los Angeles - in person (Mon-Thurs in office/Friday remoteย 

ย Benefits & Perks

  • Flexible PTO, Sick Days, and Wellness Days
  • Monthly Social Hours
  • Medical, Vision, and Dental Coverage
  • 401K with matching
  • $50/month Fitness Reimbursement + Up to $1,800 in annual wellness benefits
  • An environment of collaboration, high performance, & respect amongst all employees and managers