ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Product Development Scientist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Oterra

Product Development Scientist

Mount Pleasant, WI · On-site

... scientific and engineering principles in the research, development and production of color formulations. The applicant should have experience with Project management, specifically within Product ...

Bayer

Product Development Scientist II

Williamsburg, IA · On-site

$94K - $135K/yr

Product Development Scientist II At Bayer, our mission is Health for all, Hunger for none, and Crop Science is helping shape the future of agriculture through innovation, sustainability, and data ...

Bayer

Product Development Scientist II

Huxley, IA · On-site

$94K - $135K/yr

Product Development Scientist II At Bayer, our mission is Health for all, Hunger for none, and Crop Science is helping shape the future of agriculture through innovation, sustainability, and data ...

Bayer

Product Development Scientist II

Huxley, IA · On-site

$94K - $135K/yr

Product Development Scientist II At Bayer, our mission is Health for all, Hunger for none, and Crop Science is helping shape the future of agriculture through innovation, sustainability, and data ...

Savor

Product Development Scientist

Hayward, CA

$130K - $170K/yr

We are seeking a Product Development Scientist to lead the development and testing of the new class of products we're bringing to market, primarily based in San Jose, CA. In this role, you will join ...

Savor

Product Development Scientist

Fremont, CA

$130K - $170K/yr

We are seeking a Product Development Scientist to lead the development and testing of the new class of products we're bringing to market, primarily based in San Jose, CA. In this role, you will join ...

Bayer

$94K - $135K/yr

Product Development Scientist II At Bayer, our mission is Health for all, Hunger for none, and Crop Science is helping shape the future of agriculture through innovation, sustainability, and data ...

Bayer Inc.

Product Development Scientist II

Huxley, IA

$94K - $135K/yr

Product Development Scientist II At Bayer, our mission is Health for all, Hunger for none, and Crop Science is helping shape the future of agriculture through innovation, sustainability, and data ...

Oterra

Product Development Scientist

Sturtevant, WI

... scientific and engineering principles in the research, development and production of color formulations. The applicant should have experience with Project management, specifically within Product ...

Savor

Product Development Scientist

Alameda, CA

$130K - $170K/yr

We are seeking a Product Development Scientist to lead the development and testing of the new class of products we're bringing to market, primarily based in San Jose, CA. In this role, you will join ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsProduct Development Scientist Jobs

Product Development Scientist information

See salary details

$46K

$82.7K

$120.5K

How much do product development scientist jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for product development scientist in the United States is $82,657.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $69,000.00 and $94,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What do product development scientists do?

Product development scientists design, develop, and improve products by conducting research, testing prototypes, and analyzing data to ensure quality and functionality. They often collaborate with cross-functional teams, utilize laboratory equipment, and follow industry standards to bring new products from concept to market.

What is the highest paid type of scientist?

Among scientists, petroleum engineers and certain specialized roles in data science and pharmaceutical research tend to have the highest salaries. Product Development Scientists in high-demand industries with advanced skills and certifications can also earn top compensation, especially in biotech and tech sectors.

What does a Product Development Scientist do?

A Product Development Scientist is responsible for researching, designing, and developing new products or improving existing ones, often within industries like food, pharmaceuticals, or consumer goods. They collaborate with cross-functional teams such as marketing, engineering, and manufacturing to ensure products meet quality, safety, and regulatory standards. Their work includes conducting experiments, analyzing data, and scaling up processes from the laboratory to full production. Product Development Scientists play a key role in bringing innovative products to market and ensuring they satisfy customer needs.

What are some typical cross-functional collaborations for a Product Development Scientist, and how do they impact project outcomes?

Product Development Scientists frequently collaborate with teams such as engineering, marketing, regulatory affairs, and quality assurance. These collaborations ensure that product concepts are both scientifically sound and commercially viable, comply with regulatory standards, and meet customer needs. Effective communication and coordination with these groups are essential for troubleshooting challenges, refining formulations, and accelerating product launch timelines. Building strong relationships across departments can significantly impact the success and speed of bringing new products to market.

What degree do you need for R&D?

Product Development Scientists typically need at least a bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as chemistry, biology, engineering, or a related science. Advanced roles may require a master's degree or Ph.D., along with experience in laboratory work, research methods, and familiarity with industry tools and regulations.

How much do product developers get paid?

Product development scientists typically earn a median annual salary of around $70,000 to $100,000, depending on experience, education, and location. Entry-level roles may start lower, while experienced professionals or those in senior positions can earn over $120,000. Skills in research, formulation, and project management can influence compensation.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Product Development Scientist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Product Development Scientist, you need a strong background in chemistry, biology, or engineering with a relevant degree, along with expertise in experimental design and data analysis. Familiarity with laboratory instrumentation, statistical software, and quality management systems is typically required, and certifications in Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) can be advantageous. Excellent problem-solving, creativity, and teamwork skills help drive innovation and facilitate collaboration across multidisciplinary teams. These competencies are essential for developing effective, safe, and market-ready products in competitive scientific industries.

What is the difference between Product Development Scientist vs Formulation Scientist?

AspectProduct Development ScientistFormulation Scientist
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Chemistry, Biology, or related fieldsBachelor's or Master's in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or related fields
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, product testing, cross-functional teamsLaboratories focused on formulation, testing, and stability studies
Industry UsageConsumer goods, pharmaceuticals, food & beveragePharmaceuticals, cosmetics, food & beverage

Product Development Scientists and Formulation Scientists often share similar educational backgrounds and work environments. However, Product Development Scientists focus on creating and improving products from concept to market, while Formulation Scientists specialize in developing specific formulations, such as drug or cosmetic formulas. Both roles are essential in bringing innovative products to consumers across various industries.

What Does a Product Development Scientist Do?

A product development scientist assists a company with the entire process of new product development, from inception to production. As a product development scientist, your primary responsibilities are to research customer demand, develop concepts, and work on the formulation and completion of a product. You also document the development process, test new products to ensure adherence to safety standards and regulations, and assist with production. Your duties involve handling experimental design and execution, reviewing and analyzing data, and creating reports and preparing presentations. A product development scientist can work in a variety of industries, such as food, cosmetics, or pharmaceutical, and may benefit from a diverse professional background.

More about Product Development Scientist jobs
What cities are hiring for Product Development Scientist jobs? Cities with the most Product Development Scientist job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Product Development Scientist jobs? The most popular types of Product Development Scientist jobs are:
Who are the top companies hiring for Product Development Scientist jobs? The top employers for Product Development Scientist jobs are:
What states have the most Product Development Scientist jobs? States with the most job openings for Product Development Scientist jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Product Development Scientist jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Product Development Scientist jobs are:
What are popular job titles related to Product Development Scientist jobs? For Product Development Scientist jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Product Development Scientist jobs near you

Product Development Scientist

Oterra

Mount Pleasant, WI • On-site

Full-time

Posted 24 days ago

Job description

Company Description
At Oterra, we are leading the global movement toward natural colors in food, beverages, dietary supplements, and pet food. Guided by the belief that nature got it right the first time, we partner with customers around the world to create innovative, naturally sourced solutions that make a meaningful impact.
Our people are at the center of everything we do. We foster a collaborative and purpose-driven culture where employees are encouraged to learn, grow, and contribute to meaningful work every day. With a growing U.S. facility in Mount Pleasant, Oterra offers exciting opportunities to join a global organization committed to innovation, sustainability, and employee development.
Job Description
This position works under limited supervision and is primarily responsible for the understanding and development of basic to complex colors formulations for specific applications and scaling up in commercial production facility with the purpose of advancing the growth of Oterra. The position will develop cross-functional relationships, functioning as the technical advisor to the internal stakeholders at Oterra.
The successful applicant will have a strong background in food science, preferably food chemistry as they will need to apply scientific and engineering principles in the research, development and production of color formulations. The applicant should have experience with Project management, specifically within Product Development, and preferably experienced in interacting cross-functionally with Production, Quality and Sales acting as the technical expert.
  1. Handles simple to complex color formulation projects in a timely manner starting at the lab bench level through to commercialization.
  2. Interacts with external customers, sales, applications scientists, and other departments internally as needed in defining specific technical parameters for projects to meet customer needs.
  3. Serves as project manager for simple to complex development projects from conception through launch by following a defined launch excellence process.
  4. Maintains written technical documentation, and product and process specifications.
  5. May coordinate work of technicians and others who assist in specific project assignments.
  6. Conducts in-person consultation with customers from conception through commercialization in their facilities.
  7. Serves as a regional technical expert for color formulations for the regional Oterra stakeholders.
  8. Supports production with upscaling and troubleshooting including the ability to interpret food standards, safety and sanitary regulations and good manufacturing practices.
  9. Maintains safe working environment by practicing and enforcing established safety procedures.
  10. Learns and uses processing equipment in lab and pilot plant with minimal supervision including studying, developing and applying new methods to assess color formulations.
  11. Provides training for QC and production personnel in new formulations and analytical methods.

Qualifications
  1. Bachelor's in Chemistry, Biology, Biochemistry, Food Science, Pharmaceutical Science or related field with 5+ years of relevant experience; or MSc with 3+ years of relevant experience; or Ph.D. in Chemistry, Food Science, Pharmaceutical Science or related field.
  2. Strong experience with project management and stakeholder management, preferably experience with managing development projects.
  3. Deep knowledge of food ingredients and processing. Experience with color ingredients is an advantage.
  4. Experience with customer interaction and driving customer projects.
  5. General understanding of analytical techniques and food quality and safety.
  6. Ability to read, collect data, analyze, and interpret technical information, as well as write and present reports and technical papers.
  7. Ability to distinguish colors in a wide variety of applications and media. Must have excellent color vision. (Color Vision Testing Required.)
  8. Proficient in Microsoft Office tools and programs (e.g. Excel, Word, PowerPoint, etc.)

Additional Information
Working Conditions
Working environment is generally favorable. Lighting, temperature and noise levels are adequate with occasional exposure to cold temperatures. Personal Protective Equipment is required when working in the laboratory. This includes a lab coat, and if necessary, safety glasses, dust mask or gloves. When working in the production plant, a hair/beard net, safety glasses and safety shoes are required and GLP/GMP guidelines must be followed.
The job is onsite in Mt. Pleasant, WI and travel up to 25% of working time is required. General work schedule meets first shift expectations but hours are flexible to meet personal and business needs.
Physical Demands
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to stand, walk, talk and hear. The employee is regularly required to lift and/or move materials or equipment up to 25 lbs. and occasionally required to lift up to 50 lbs. Use of hands to handle or touch objects, tools or controls is frequently required. Specific vision abilities required by this job include vision, color vision, depth perception and the ability to adjust focus. Employee is occasionally exposed to moving mechanical parts, fumes or airborne particles and toxic or caustic chemicals.

Apply