Job Description

Thrive Freeze Dry, a rapidly growing freeze-dried manufacturing company is recruiting for experienced Food Scientistfor our location in Langley BC reporting to the Research and Development Manager.

Responsibilities:

Lead ideation and execution of new product initiatives aligned with company strategy, market trends, and customer insights. Oversee trials and creation/optimization of freeze-drying processes for raw and the occasional cooked ingredients, managing moisture targets, product integrity, and nutrient retention. Work with procurement, quality, operations, and sales & marketing teams to ensure product feasibility, cost targets, manufacturability, and brand alignment. Ensure all formulations meet or exceed AAFCO, FDA (if applicable), and other applicable regulations and nutritional standards. Oversee the creation and maintenance of comprehensive technical documentation, including ingredient specifications, product spec sheets, and formulation records. Design and lead shelf life and stability studies to validate product integrity, safety, and nutritional performance over time, ensuring data-driven decisions for expiration dating and packaging requirements. Evaluate new ingredients and suppliers for functional, nutritional, and safety performance; develop sourcing specifications. Build and mentor a high-performing pet food committee within the R&D team, promoting scientific rigor and a culture of innovation. Other duties as assigned

Qualifications:

Master's or Bachelor's in Food Science, Animal Nutrition, Meat Science, or related field. 2+ years of experience in pet food or food manufacturing; 1+ years in freeze-dried or low-moisture foods preferred. In-depth knowledge of pet nutrition (dog and cat), ingredient functionality, and AAFCO/FDA/USDA regulatory guidelines. Proven experience managing R&D projects. Strong understanding of freeze-drying equipment, HACCP, and food safety principles. Excellent project management, communication, and cross-functional collaboration skills. * Passion for animal health and wellness through science-based nutrition.