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Product Development Jobs in Columbus, GA (NOW HIRING)

You'll work in a collaborative environment alongside experienced scientists and contribute to real product development. What You Might Work On * Participating in general laboratory operations ...

You'll work in a collaborative environment alongside experienced scientists and contribute to real product development. What You Might Work On * Participating in general laboratory operations ...

Product Owner III

Columbus, GA · On-site

$100K - $145K/yr

Pursuing Self-Development * Serving Customers * Supporting Change * Supporting Organizational Goals ... Product ownership of at least three end to end product deliveries * Must have completed and ...

R&D LAB Technician III

Columbus, GA

$17 - $22.50/hr

Be part of a dynamic R&D LAB team responsible for thermal testing of products to achieve global compliance. * This is a high impact, hands on role where you will be responsible for the execution of ...

R&D LAB Technician III

Columbus, GA · On-site

$17 - $22.50/hr

Be part of a dynamic R&D LAB team responsible for thermal testing of products to achieve global compliance. * This is a high impact, hands on role where you will be responsible for the execution of ...

Assisting in the development and execution of product strategies and roadmaps * Conducting market research and competitive analysis to guide product decisions * Creating product documentation such as ...

Assisting in the development and execution of product strategies and roadmaps * Conducting market research and competitive analysis to guide product decisions * Creating product documentation such as ...

... product owner experience? Do you want to join a fast-growing company with a mission to serve? We ... For more than 15 years, we have specialized in mobile app development for law enforcement, public ...

Sales Development Manager

Salem, AL · On-site

$60K - $100K/yr

Ensure continuous and consistent coaching aimed at developing and motivating Sales Development Representatives, fostering a positive and productive atmosphere. * Lead by example in appointment ...

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Product Development information

See Columbus, GA salary details

$38K

$113.7K

$129.3K

How much do product development jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for product development in Columbus, GA is $113,669.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $102,500.00 and $128,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What skills do you need to be a product development?

Product development professionals need strong skills in project management, market research, and technical knowledge relevant to their industry. They should have excellent communication, problem-solving abilities, and proficiency with tools like CAD software or data analysis programs. Understanding customer needs and working collaboratively across teams are also essential for success in this role.

What is product development?

Product development is the process of creating new products or enhancing existing products to improve market value. It includes all aspects of research, design, testing, and marketing. Product development takes months or years to implement properly because marketers and analysts watch market trends over time to determine whether a product is satisfying a consumer need or want.

What is the difference between Product Development vs Product Management?

AspectProduct DevelopmentProduct Management
Primary FocusDesigning, creating, and building productsStrategizing, planning, and overseeing product lifecycle
Required SkillsTechnical skills, engineering, designMarket research, communication, leadership
Work EnvironmentEngineering teams, R&D, technical departmentsCross-functional teams, executive meetings
Common CertificationsEngineering degrees, technical certificationsProduct management certifications (e.g., PMP, Scrum)

Product Development focuses on creating and building products, involving technical and engineering tasks. Product Management involves strategizing, planning, and guiding the product's lifecycle, requiring strong market and leadership skills. While they collaborate closely, their core responsibilities differ: one builds, the other manages the product's success.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in product development, and how can they be addressed?

Product Development professionals often encounter challenges such as balancing customer needs with technical feasibility, managing cross-functional team communication, and meeting tight deadlines. Navigating these issues typically involves clear prioritization, regular stakeholder check-ins, and fostering a collaborative environment with engineering, design, and marketing teams. Utilizing agile methodologies and maintaining open feedback channels can also help streamline processes and ensure alignment on project goals.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in product development, and why are they important?

To thrive in Product Development, you need expertise in market research, project management, and product lifecycle understanding, often supported by a degree in engineering, business, or a related field. Familiarity with tools like Agile software, prototyping platforms, and product management systems (e.g., Jira, Trello) is typically required. Creativity, strong communication, and cross-functional collaboration are crucial soft skills for success in this role. These competencies ensure the creation of innovative, user-centric products that successfully reach the market and meet business goals.

Is product development a good career?

Product development is a viable career that involves designing, creating, and improving products, often requiring skills in project management, design, and technical tools. It offers opportunities across various industries and can lead to roles in management or specialized technical fields, with a focus on innovation and problem-solving.

How much do product developers get paid?

Product developers typically earn a median annual salary of around $85,000, with salaries ranging from approximately $60,000 to over $120,000 depending on experience, location, and industry. Entry-level positions generally start lower, while experienced developers or those in senior roles can earn significantly more, especially with specialized skills or certifications.

What is product development?

Product development is the process of creating new products or improving existing ones to meet customer needs and business goals. It involves several stages, including idea generation, market research, design, prototyping, testing, and launching the product to the market. Product development often requires cross-functional collaboration between teams like marketing, engineering, design, and manufacturing. The goal is to deliver a product that provides value to customers and stands out in the marketplace.
What are the most commonly searched types of Product Development jobs in Columbus, GA? The most popular types of Product Development jobs in Columbus, GA are:
What job categories do people searching Product Development jobs in Columbus, GA look for? The top searched job categories for Product Development jobs in Columbus, GA are:
What cities near Columbus, GA are hiring for Product Development jobs? Cities near Columbus, GA with the most Product Development job openings:
Infographic showing various Product Development job openings in Columbus, GA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 22% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $113,669 per year, or $54.6 per hour.

Product Development Lab Specialist

Refresco

Columbus, GA • On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 25 days ago


Refresco rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 61 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

231st of 436 rated food and drinks producers


Job description

Description

Make a Difference in YOUR Career!

Our vision is both simple and ambitious: to put our drinks on every table.

We are the leading global independent beverage solutions provider. We serve a broad range of national and international retailers as well as Global, National and Emerging (GNE) brands. Our products are distributed worldwide from our production sites in Europe, North America, and Australia. Although our own branding may not appear on the labels of the beverages we produce, there is a good chance you are reading this while sipping one of our drinks.

Our ambition is to continually improve and it’s what keeps us at the top of our game. We are solutions-based. We are innovative. We seek out new challenges and conquer them. This is our company ethos, but it’s our people’s too: Refresco is at the cutting edge of a fast-moving industry because we have passionate people pushing the boundaries of what’s best.

Stop and think: how would YOU put our drinks on every table?

The PD Lab Specialist will maintain vital functions of the lab such as cleanliness, organization and restocking of materials. They will be responsible for the thorough execution of assigned projects for internal and external customers, by diligently reviewing all supporting information. They will also support developers, other PD lab personnel, and other functional groups within R&D, understanding and fulfilling basic Product Development lab practices, technical responsibilities, and standard operating procedures.

Essential Job Functions:

  • Maintain a safe, clean and organized lab environment in accordance with GLPs (Good Laboratory Practices).

  • Show initiative in leading and maintaining assigned admin tasks. Create and own the process.

  • Develop familiarity in proper use of lab instrumentation including microthermics, homogenizer, HTP processor and analytical devices.

  • Independently complete sample requests in a timely manner with proper execution from referencing SharePoint specifications to generating the lab formula, beverage creation, bottling, logging, labeling and linking information into lab database and communicating shipping information. Also, be proficient in uploading all supporting documents to the ACE database.

  • Properly test specs and maintain lab inventory of juices, flavors, packaging, carbonated water and materials. Show initiative and ownership in communicating with suppliers and supporting departments for material requests.

  • Develop knowledge in relevant use of ERP software (SAP), product development testing methods and technical competencies according to PD Playbook OneNote SOPs.

  • Support developers and other lab personnel in various development projects and all lab functions.

  • Learn to communicate professionally with and support all customers both internal and external.

  • Understand and support shelf-life practices including ring study, light stability testing and sensory evaluations.

  • Develop understanding of raw material qualification process. Be able to independently operate SIMS sensory testing software for site taste tests.

  • Start building sensory experience relevant to job advancement.

Required Skills:

  • Demonstrate a willingness to learn, develop and perfect PD lab methods and practices. This includes maintaining all applicable documentation and records – sample log, specification logs, ACE, shipping documents and other tracking initiatives.

  • Take ownership of projects. Take initiative in asking questions and collecting information to complete tasks. Exercise independence and exhibit critical thinking skills.

  • Have an aptitude for mathematical calculations.

  • Communicate professionally with honest and constructive feedback. Confidently share ideas and solutions.

  • Be consistent in information awareness by thoroughly reading emails and regularly referencing SharePoint and Weekly Action Plan and taking ownership of Planner tasks.

  • Embody the 5 Refresco values by demonstrating responsibility, entrepreneurship, agility, excellence and passion.

  • Foster teamwork, especially through providing assistance to fellow lab personnel.

  • Have the ability to notice, interpret and anticipate others concerns and feelings.

  • Demonstrate focus on desired result of self or team and drive to meet goals.

Education and Experience:

  • Bachelor’s degree or Diploma in Chemistry, Biology, Food Science or related discipline, or have adequate experience in a beverage / food lab preferred.

Working Conditions:

  • Work environment- Work and environment are very repetitive.

  • Mental Stress- There is pronounced pressure from deadlines, production quotas, accuracy or similar demands.

Travel Requirements:

  • Based in Columbus, GA development lab with rare travel requirements, to customers, suppliers, or Refresco plants.

Other Duties:

  • This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change, or new ones may be assigned at any time with or without notice.

A Career with Refresco

Refresco is passionate about empowering leaders who reflect our core values and live by our leadership behaviors. These behaviors encourage effective leadership within the business, and focus on leading courageously, empowering individuals, and driving company growth as one team. Joining our team as a people manager means you’ll be encouraged to evolve as a leader who prioritizes the success of both you and your team, to deliver results, whilst bringing your authentic self to work.

Refresco Beverages US Inc. offers the following competitive pay and comprehensive benefits:  

  • Medical/Dental/Vision Insurance   

  • Health Savings Accounts and Flexible Spending Accounts 

  • Life and AD&D Insurance, critical illness, hospital indemnity, and accident insurance

  • Short-term disability and long-term disability  

  • Pet Insurance 

  • Legal Benefits 

  • 401(k) Savings Plan with Company Match 

  • 12 Paid Holidays

  • Vacation Days and Paid Sick Time Off Days

  • Well-being Benefit

  • Discount and Total Reward Programs 

Join Refresco TODAY and enjoy a rewarding CAREER!  

Any employment agency, person, or entity that submits a résumé to this career site or a hiring manager does so with the understanding that the applicant's résumé will become the property of Refresco Beverages US, Inc.  Refresco Beverages, US Inc., will have the right to hire that applicant at its discretion without any fee owed to the submitting employment agency, person, or entity. 

Employment agencies that have agreements with Refresco Beverages US, Inc., and have been engaged in a search shall submit a résumé to the designated Refresco recruiter or, upon authorization, submit a résumé to this career site to be eligible for placement fees. 

Refresco Beverages US Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, marital status, disability, gender identity, gender expression, Veteran status, or any other classification protected by federal, state, or local law.

Equal Opportunity Employer

This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights (https://www.eeoc.gov/poster) notice from the Department of Labor.


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