Job Description

We are currently looking for a creative and innovative Product Developer! This is an exciting opportunity to join our dynamic team and a fast-growing business.VM Food Group offers:

• A competitive compensation package including comprehensive health benefits;
• Work-life balance with flexible work hours;
• Hybrid work (candidates must reside in Ontario and be available for in-office presence a minimum of 4 days / week);
• Complimentary oatmeal;
• Opportunity to evolve in a growing company.

Here\xe2\x80\x99s a bit about VM Food group:
Vaughn Mills Packaging Ltd. (\xe2\x80\x9cVM Food Group\xe2\x80\x9d) manufactures and distributes oatmeal and other hot cereal products, servicing businesses of all sizes across North America. We are one of North America\xe2\x80\x99s leading value-added private label partners for retail brands bringing innovation and thought leadership to the hot cereal breakfast category. We currently specialize in the formulation, mixing and packaging of private label oatmeal to the North American grocery market with our largest category served being single serve instant oatmeal and specialty blends. We excel because of our innovation, responsiveness, and strong corporate culture to deliver the most effective solutions.Here\xe2\x80\x99s what you will do as Product Developer:
Reporting to the Manager of Product Development, the Product Developer will play an important role in the research and development of new or enhanced food products at VM Food group. The Product Developer will be a direct link to the operations and sales teams to help produce the best products for our customers by supporting formula management and development, developing product plans, evaluating and interpreting results ensuring that all new materials comply with food safety parameters and are seamlessly incorporated into VM Food Group\xe2\x80\x99s existing systems and programs.

• Develop and finalize recipes, product specifications and ingredient declarations;
• Create and update formulations based on changes in product and/or customer needs;
• Document appropriate and accurate formula data including recipes and methodology;
• Coordinate ingredients and materials for in house trials. Conduct plant trials and First Productions. Troubleshoot with Operations and Production teams and produce documentation;
• Collaborate with Procurement and suppliers to source and test ingredients. Assist in approving or rejecting new raw materials, conducting research and testing new ingredients and processing techniques;
• Manage and update databases and systems (i.e. formulations, new food sources, bill of materials, research and development of raw materials, nutritional fact tables, etc.);
• Develop and prepare samples for customers and coordinate the distribution of samples;
• Assist with packaging changes and artwork, ensuring compliance with government regulations. Review and establish claims and callouts on packaging as required;
• Lead product reviews against National Brand Equivalent;
• Prepare analysis and reports for key stakeholders;
• Assist in developing and testing new and existing ingredients;
• Assist in leading market insights, industry trends and researching innovative ingredient / formats and apply in the development and planning process;
• Attend customer meetings & presentations, respond and troubleshoot inquiries and provide resolutions;
• Ensure products meet food safety parameters and rules;
• Special projects as assigned for the overall benefit of the Company.

Here\xe2\x80\x99s what you\xe2\x80\x99ll need to be successful as Product Developer:

• Bachelor\xe2\x80\x99s degree in food science and technology or a related field;
• 2-4 years of experience in product development or related field, within food CPG preferred. Strong knowledge of manufacturing environment;
• Creative and innovative product development enthusiast;
• Understanding of ingredients and formula portfolios;
• In-depth knowledge of applicable government regulations (i.e. CFIA / FDA), Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs), allergens and Food Safety and Quality Control tools and standards;
• Strong MS Office Suite (including Excel and Power point). Experience with Genesis / Esha or other similar software;
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills. Proven experience writing clear, concise and accurate procedural documentation;
• Superior problem solving and analytical skills with the ability to interpret data and make data-driven decisions;
• Excellent attention to detail, accuracy, investigative, and analytical skills;
• Team oriented with excellent interpersonal skills, including the ability to collaborate effectively with internal and external stakeholders as well as cross-functional teams;
• Exceptional time management and organizational skills with impeccable attention to detail and accuracy;
• Flexible, adaptable and open to wearing many hats in our small, nimble and growing business;
• Understanding of food and industry trends;
• Ability to play a key role in supporting and promoting Food Safety & Quality standards of the company.

Interested in being a part of VM Food Group? We look forward to your application!We believe diverse perspectives strengthen our ability to deliver on our mission, and that to achieve our vision of excellence requires an environment in which everyone feels welcomed and valued, including our team, and those we serve and with whom we work.VM Food Group is committed to meeting the accessibility needs of all applicants throughout the recruiting and selection process. Please let us know about any accommodation and/or support requirements. Please note only those candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.Please note we are only accepting applications from those authorized to work in Canada and we are not currently sponsoring any temporary or permanent work visas.Powered by JazzHR

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