Product Development Manager Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

job purpose: The Product Development Technologist supports the development, optimization, and commercialization of dairy products through hands-on laboratory and pilot plant activities as a member of the Product Development team. Working collaboratively in R&D, as well as with cross-functional partners, this role contributes to new product development, product maintenance, product improvement, and continuous improvement initiatives across multiple product lines. Responsibilities include formulation development, ingredient evaluation, analytical and functional testing, scale-up activities, technical documentation, and data analysis to support successful product launches. The Product Development Technologist ensures laboratory activities are conducted in accordance with quality, food safety, and regulatory requirements.

responsibilities:

• Develops and prepares product prototypes using laboratory and pilot plant equipment to support research and development activities

• Selects and applies appropriate methodologies for project execution and contributes to the design and implementation of experimental plans

• Assists with pilot plant trials, scale-up activities, and production validations to support commercialization and successful product launches.

• Sets up, operates, and maintains laboratory and pilot plant equipment to ensure accurate and efficient testing

• Participates in product benchmarking and sensory evaluations to assess product quality, performance, and competitive positioning.

• Conducts analytical and functional testing of ingredients including raw and processed dairy, utilizing laboratory instrumentation; Analyzes, and interprets experimental data to support project recommendations and decision-making.

• Maintains accurate laboratory notebooks, test records, and technical documentation in accordance with company procedures.

• Prepares summaries, reports, and presentations to communicate project findings and recommendations.

• Coordinates with suppliers and internal stakeholders, including other company locations, to procure materials and support project needs

• Receives and organizes incoming deliveries in support of laboratory operations

• Sources ingredients and manages laboratory inventory to ensure availability of materials for ongoing projects

• Maintains a clean, organized, and safe laboratory environment in compliance with company and regulatory standards

skills/qualifications required:

• Bachelor's degree in food science, Dairy Science, Chemistry, Biology or related discipline required

• 0-2 years' experience in the food industry (Dairy applications is a plus)

• Ability to handle ambiguity and work in a fast paced, entrepreneurial environment

• Ability to work autonomously and adapt to changes in schedule

• Proficiency in English: Comfortable with both written and verbal communication, including reading and writing.

working conditions and physical requirements:

• 8+ hours sitting/standing/walking

• Ability to lift up to 40 lbs.

• Reaching/bending required

• Exposure to hazards (steam, flammable chemicals, machinery, confined spaces, etc.)

• While performing the duties of this job, the employee is exposed to a lab and pilot plant environment where the noise level is usually moderate, but can be high. PPE is required in certain situations and will be provided.

• Be flexible with hours and scheduling, ability to work all shifts including extended hours as needed (up to 12 hours due to certain trial work)

how fairlife nourishes you:

At fairlife, we believe in better — and that includes how we support our people. We offer a comprehensive suite of benefits and wellbeing resources designed to support you physically, emotionally, socially, and financially, both in and out of work.

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, effective day one!

• Supplemental health plans (hospital indemnity, accident, and critical illness insurance)

• Paid Time Off to recharge and support work-life balance

• Paid parental leave & adoption assistance (up to $10,000)

• Parental support & family care benefits, including childcare resources and lactation support

• 401(k) to support retirement planning with up to 9% in employer match

• Wellness reimbursement (up to $500 for qualified wellbeing expenses)

• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for emotional wellbeing and work-life support

• Company-paid life insurance and short-term disability

• Employer HSA funding (for HDHP participants)

• Tuition reimbursement (up to $10,000) and student loan repayment ($200/month)

• Learning & development programs to unlock your full potential

• Rewards & recognition, matching gifts, free product, and Business Resource Groups

fairlife's nour!sh program is designed to meet you where you are — supporting your individual wellbeing journey while enabling you to do your best work every day.

position location: Chicago, IL

reports to: Manager, Product Development

travel requirements: 10%

exempt/nonexempt: Exempt