Tootsie Roll of Canada / Concord Confections, the manufacturer of Dubble Bubble gum and other fine candy products, has an immediate opening for R&D Scientist. The R&D Scientist is responsible for developing product formulation, conducting studies and trials, commercialization, reformulations of existing products, material research, innovation, trouble shooting, QA tasks and managing projects withing and outside the department. The ideal candidate will collaborate with cross-functional teams to drive innovation, provide technical support and lead projects to meet business goals and objectives.

EDUCATION / QUALIFICATION / OTHER REQUIREMENTS

• Bachelor’s degree in food science, food technology, chemistry, or a related field. Master’s degree is a plus.
• Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in product development within the bubble gum, confectionery or food / beverage industry.
• Strong knowledge of product formulation and development, materials. and manufacturing processes. Experience with food colours and flavours is an asset.
• Familiarity with food safety standards (e.g., CFIA, FDA regulations, HACCP, GMP, SQF) and certifications (e.g. Kosher, Gluten Free, Organic, etc.).
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a fast-paced environment.
• Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
• Data analysis in Excel, project management and presentation skills.
• Computer skills: Proficient in Microsoft Office suite, (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
• Experience with Genesis R&D knowledge and Laserfiche is a plus.
• Good interpersonal and communication skills.
• Work at both Concord sites based on business and operational needs. Ability to commute regularly between the two sites in Concord Vaughan.
• Must have a valid driver’s license.
• Ability to lift and move materials.
  Job Type: Full-time

Additional pay:

• Bonus pay

Benefits:

• Casual dress
• Company events
• Dental care
• Disability insurance
• Extended health care
• Life insurance
• On-site parking
• Paid time off
• RRSP match
• Store discount
• Tuition reimbursement
• Vision care

Flexible language requirement:

• French not required

Schedule:

• Monday to Friday
• Weekends as needed

Ability to commute/relocate:

• Vaughan, ON L4K 5A6: reliably commute or plan to relocate before starting work (required)

Education:

• Bachelor’s Degree (required)

Experience:

• Product development: 3 years (required)

Work Location: In perso

• Product Development: Lead the development of new gum and candy products from concept through commercialization, working closely with cross-functional teams (e.g., marketing, quality assurance, production, maintenance, etc.).
• Formulation and Testing: Develop and test new product formulations and reformulations, including ingredient sourcing and trials, batch testing, sensory evaluation, shelf-life analysis, etc.
• Develop project plans and deadlines. Collect, analyze and interpret data to make sound technical recommendation on product and process issues.
• Process improvement: Collaborate with teams to optimize product formulations for scalability, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness.
• Market Research: Stay abreast of market trends, consumer preferences, and emerging technologies to identify opportunities for product innovation and differentiation.
• Compliance: Ensure that all current, new products and product reformulations comply with relevant regulatory and other requirements, including company policies and procedures, SQF etc.
• Collaboration: Work closely with suppliers, vendors, and internal stakeholders to source ingredients and materials, and ensure that products meet quality and consistency standards.
• Documentation: Maintain accurate and detailed records of all product development processes, including recipes, plant trial runs, test results, and regulatory compliance documentation. Prepare formulas for costing, production and nutritional / ingredients files.
• Troubleshooting: Address and resolve product or process-related issues that may arise during development or production.
• Be trained in Packaging R&D, and lead / assist with packaging R&D when required.
• Prepare samples for evaluations, marketing and sales team, further testing and other needs.
• Conduct shelf life studies and other tests. Collect and analyze data, drive conclusions, determine next steps and timelines.
• Lead efforts to make improvements in the process, analysis and reporting.
• Assist or lead some of the QA tasks, including SQF, HACCP, packaging related tasks as assigned.
• Support QA Technologists and Supervisor. Cover vacations and other absences in the department.
• Lead and / or support projects and tasks, within and outside your area of responsibility, and work at the two Concord sites as required.
• Other duties as assigned.