Associate - Product Development

Are you a passionate and detail-oriented individual with a flair for food innovation? Thinking Forks is actively seeking an Associate - Product Development to join our dynamic team. In this pivotal role, you will be instrumental in transforming exciting food concepts into market-ready products, contributing directly to the future of food. If you possess a strong background in food science or engineering and thrive in a collaborative, fast-paced environment, this is an exceptional opportunity to make a tangible impact as an Associate - Product Development.

Key Responsibilities

• Collaborate closely with Project Managers to drive the development of innovative food products, managing the process from initial lab-scale experimentation through pilot and full plant production, ensuring alignment with design briefs and quality standards.
• Execute comprehensive product validation, including meticulous shelf-life studies, robust product stability tests, and in-depth raw material analyses to guarantee product integrity and safety.
• Conduct thorough secondary research and detailed literature searches to gather critical insights, support ongoing projects, and inform strategic product development decisions.
• Maintain exceptionally organized and accurate documentation of all experiments, trials, technical data, and project outcomes, ensuring transparency and reproducibility.
• Actively participate in the sourcing and qualification of new suppliers for raw materials, packaging materials, specialized equipment, and co-manufacturing partners, contributing to a robust supply chain.
• Ensure strict adherence to all Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), company templates, and critical occupational safety regulations, fostering a culture of compliance and safety.
• Contribute to sensory evaluation and consumer testing initiatives, gathering feedback to refine product formulations and improve consumer acceptance.
• Stay updated with industry trends, emerging technologies, and regulatory changes in the food and beverage sector to inform continuous innovation.

Requirements

• Education: A Bachelor's or Master's degree in a relevant field such as Food Science, Food Technology, or Food Engineering from a recognized institution.
• Experience: 1-2 years of hands-on experience in product development, specifically within the Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG), Ingredients, or Food Packaging industries.
• Analytical Acumen: Proven ability to conduct detailed analyses, interpret data, and draw actionable conclusions for product improvement and problem-solving.
• Attention to Detail: Demonstrated meticulousness in experimental design, data recording, and adherence to protocols.
• Passion for Innovation: A curious, detail-oriented mindset with a genuine passion for experimenting, analyzing, and driving innovation in the food sector.
• Communication Skills: Excellent verbal and written communication skills to effectively collaborate with cross-functional teams and external partners.

What We Offer

• An exciting opportunity to be at the forefront of food innovation, shaping the products of tomorrow with Thinking Forks.
• A collaborative and supportive work environment where your ideas are valued and professional growth is encouraged.
• Direct involvement in diverse and challenging projects, providing continuous learning and development in product development.
• The chance to work with a team of experienced professionals in the food industry, gaining valuable mentorship and insights.
• A pathway for career advancement within a growing and forward-thinking organization.