R&D Manager – Organic Food Production – Milwaukee, WI

JRG Partners LLC is seeking an R&D Manager for Organic Food Production in Milwaukee, WI. The role involves leading research and product development, ensuring quality and compliance with organic standards, and driving innovation in food formulations. Candidates should have a strong background in food science and sustainability. Key responsibilities include product innovation, quality assurance, sustainable sourcing, process optimization, and team leadership.
R&D Manager – Organic Food Production

Are you a passionate innovator in organic food production? We are seeking an R&D Manager to lead research and product development efforts for a pioneering organic food company in Milwaukee, WI. This is a unique opportunity to drive innovation, ensure quality, and develop new organic food products that align with industry trends and consumer demand. If you have a strong background in food science, sustainability, and product formulation, this role is perfect for you.
Drive Innovation in Organic Food Development

A leading organic food company in Milwaukee, WI, is looking for an R&D Manager to spearhead research and innovation in food production. The ideal candidate will have expertise in organic food formulations, ingredient sourcing, and regulatory compliance. This role offers the opportunity to lead new product development, enhance food quality, and contribute to a sustainable future. If you are passionate about organic food and thrive in a fast-paced, research-driven environment, we want to hear from you!
Key Responsibilities of the R&D Manager – Organic Food Production

Product Innovation & Development

Lead the research and development of new organic food products, ensuring alignment with consumer trends, nutritional standards, and regulatory requirements. Drive innovation in ingredients, formulations, and processing techniques to enhance product quality and sustainability.
Quality & Compliance Assurance

Ensure all products meet organic certification standards, food safety regulations, and company quality benchmarks. Oversee testing, documentation, and compliance processes to maintain the highest industry standards.
Sustainable Ingredient Sourcing

Collaborate with suppliers, farmers, and procurement teams to source high-quality, organic, and sustainable ingredients. Identify and implement cost-effective, eco-friendly alternatives to improve product integrity and environmental impact.
Process Optimization & Efficiency

Evaluate and enhance manufacturing processes, shelf-life stability, and packaging solutions. Work closely with production teams to improve efficiency, minimize waste, and maintain consistency in organic food production.
Cross-Functional Collaboration

Partner with marketing, sales, and operations teams to translate consumer insights into market-leading organic products. Support product launches with technical expertise and research-backed claims.
Regulatory Compliance & Risk Management

Stay up-to-date with FDA, USDA Organic, and other regulatory guidelines to ensure compliance in product development. Identify potential risks and implement proactive measures to mitigate food safety or quality concerns.
Market & Consumer Research

Analyze industry trends, competitor offerings, and consumer preferences to drive product innovation. Conduct research on organic food technologies, clean-label ingredients, and functional nutrition to keep the company at the forefront of the industry.
Team Leadership & Development

Build and mentor a high-performing R&D team, fostering a culture of creativity, collaboration, and technical excellence. Encourage continuous learning and professional growth within the department.
What the Client is Looking for in You

As the R&D Manager – Organic Food Production, the client seeks an innovative and detail-oriented professional with a passion for organic food development, sustainability, and food science. You should have a strong background in R&D leadership, a commitment to quality, and the ability to translate market trends into breakthrough products.
Expertise in Organic Food Research & Development

The client is looking for a food science expert with experience in organic product formulation, ingredient sourcing, and food processing techniques. A deep understanding of clean-label trends, functional ingredients, and sustainable food production is essential.
Innovative & Market-Driven Mindset

You should be a strategic thinker with the ability to analyze market trends, consumer preferences, and emerging food technologies to develop innovative organic products. Experience in concept-to-launch product development is highly valued.
Strong Regulatory & Compliance Knowledge

The ideal candidate will have extensive knowledge of USDA Organic, FDA, and food safety regulations. The ability to ensure compliance while maintaining product integrity and consumer trust is crucial.
Technical & Analytical Skills

The client values professionals with expertise in food chemistry, shelf-life stability testing, and process optimization. Experience with sensory evaluation, ingredient interaction, and nutritional analysis is a plus.
Cross-Functional Leadership & Collaboration

You should have experience working with marketing, supply chain, production, and quality assurance teams to bring new products to market efficiently. The ability to communicate technical insights to non-technical teams is highly desirable.
Commitment to Sustainability & Ethical Sourcing

The client is seeking an R&D leader with a passion for sustainability. You should have experience working with organic, fair-trade, and eco-friendly ingredients to develop ethical and responsible food products.
Ability to Manage Multiple Projects & Meet Deadlines

The role requires excellent project management skills, the ability to prioritize tasks, and a track record of successfully launching multiple products within tight deadlines.
FAQs About the Role – R&D Manager – Organic Food Production

1. What are the key responsibilities of the R&D Manager in this role?

As the R&D Manager – Organic Food Production, you will play a crucial role in leading product innovation, formulation, and development of organic food products. Your key responsibilities include:
• New Product Development (NPD): Researching and developing organic food products that align with consumer trends, clean-label requirements, and sustainability goals.
• Ingredient Sourcing & Optimization: Identifying and integrating high-quality, organic, and non-GMO ingredients into formulations while ensuring cost-effectiveness and supply chain sustainability.
• Regulatory Compliance & Certifications: Ensuring all product formulations meet USDA Organic, Non-GMO, and food safety standards (FDA, HACCP, etc.) while keeping up with evolving regulations.
• Process Improvement & Scale-Up: Working closely with manufacturing, quality assurance, and procurement teams to optimize production processes for efficiency, consistency, and cost-effectiveness.
• Sensory Evaluation & Consumer Testing: Conducting product testing, flavor profiling, and consumer panel studies to ensure product appeal and market success.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Partnering with marketing, sales, and supply chain teams to ensure seamless product launches and alignment with company growth strategies.

2. What qualifications and experience are required for this position?

The ideal candidate should have a strong background in food science, nutrition, biotechnology, or a related field. Essential qualifications and experience include:
• Education: A Master’s or Ph.D. in Food Science, Biotechnology, Nutrition, or a related discipline is preferred but not mandatory. A Bachelor's degree with extensive industry experience is also considered.
• Industry Experience: At least 5-10 years of R&D experience in the organic food, functional food, or clean-label food sector.
• Technical Expertise: Strong knowledge of organic food processing, ingredient interactions, shelf-life stability, and food safety regulations.
• Regulatory Knowledge: Familiarity with organic certifications (USDA Organic, EU Organic, Non-GMO Project), FDA labeling laws, and food safety guidelines.
• Project Management: Experience in leading end-to-end product development, from ideation to commercialization.

3. What leadership qualities are essential for this role?

The company is looking for a strategic, detail-oriented, and results-driven leader who possesses:
• Innovation Mindset: Ability to develop groundbreaking organic food products based on consumer insights, scientific research, and sustainability trends.
• Project Management & Execution: Strong skills in leading multiple R&D projects simultaneously, ensuring timely execution and budget adherence.
• Collaboration & Team Leadership: Proven ability to lead R&D teams, work with cross-functional departments, and manage external research partners or suppliers.
• Problem-Solving & Analytical Skills: Ability to troubleshoot formulation challenges, optimize recipes, and enhance product performance through innovative solutions.
• Consumer-Centric Approach: A passion for understanding market trends, consumer preferences, and aligning product development with business objectives.

4. What challenges can I expect in this role?

As an R&D Manager in organic food production, you will face unique challenges, including:
• Sourcing Organic Ingredients: Ensuring a stable supply of high-quality organic raw materials while navigating seasonal availability and cost fluctuations.
• Product Consistency & Shelf-Life Optimization: Maintaining flavor, texture, and stability of organic products without artificial preservatives or additives.
• Regulatory & Compliance Hurdles: Keeping up with evolving organic certification requirements, food safety regulations, and labeling guidelines.
• Cost-Effective Innovation: Balancing premium organic ingredients with cost efficiency and production feasibility.
• Adapting to Market Trends: Responding to shifting consumer preferences towards plant-based, functional, and sustainable food options.

5. What is the expected impact of the R&D Manager on the company’s growth?

Your contributions as an R&D Manager will be integral to the company’s long-term success by:
• Driving Innovation & Product Differentiation: Creating unique organic food products that stand out in the market and align with consumer health-conscious trends.
• Enhancing Product Portfolio: Expanding the company’s organic food offerings and improving existing formulations for better taste, nutrition, and shelf stability.
• Increasing Market Share & Revenue Growth: Developing products that boost brand reputation, attract health-conscious consumers, and increase sales.
• Ensuring Sustainability & Ethical Sourcing: Implementing eco-friendly, clean-label, and sustainable food production practices that align with the company’s mission.
• Optimizing Production Efficiency: Improving manufacturing processes and cost-effectiveness while maintaining high-quality standards.

6. What is the company’s culture and work environment like?

The company fosters a collaborative, innovation-driven, and sustainability-focused work culture. Key aspects of the work environment include:
• Passion for Organic & Sustainable Food: Employees are driven by a commitment to clean, healthy, and responsibly sourced food products.
• Innovation & Continuous Learning: The company encourages creative problem-solving, research advancements, and staying ahead of industry trends.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Teams work closely with marketing, sales, quality control, and supply chain teams to bring products from concept to market.
• Support for Work-Life Balance: Flexible work arrangements, professional development opportunities, and a supportive leadership team.
• Diversity & Inclusion: A culture that values diverse perspectives, encourages new ideas, and promotes career growth.

This is an exciting opportunity to lead groundbreaking research, influence organic food trends, and contribute to a healthier, more sustainable food system.
What Remuneration Can You Expect from This Job?

As the R&D Manager – Organic Food Production, you can expect a competitive compensation package that reflects your expertise in food innovation, product development, and organic certification compliance. The remuneration for this role typically includes:
1. Base Salary

The base salary for an R&D Manager in the organic food industry varies based on company size, location, and level of experience. Typically, it ranges from $90,000 to $140,000 annually, with larger companies or leadership roles offering even higher salaries.
2. Performance-Based Bonuses

Most R&D Managers receive performance-based bonuses, which are linked to key business objectives such as new product development, cost optimization, regulatory compliance, and market success. These bonuses can range from 10% to 25% of the base salary, depending on company performance.
3. Equity & Stock Options

In some companies, equity-based incentives such as stock options or profit-sharing plans are included in the compensation package. This is more common in startups or high-growth organic food brands, where stock grants may provide long-term financial rewards.
4. Research Grants & Innovation Incentives

Many organizations offer research grants or incentives for patent development, sustainability innovations, and breakthrough formulations. These additional earnings can range from $5,000 to $50,000 annually, depending on the impact of your research.
5. Executive Benefits & Perks

As a key leader in the R&D department, you may receive comprehensive benefits, including:
• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) with company match
• Professional development allowances for conferences and certifications
• Wellness programs and work-life balance perks
• Relocation assistance (if applicable)

6. Signing Bonuses & Relocation Assistance

For experienced candidates, companies may offer signing bonuses or relocation packages ranging from $5,000 to $20,000. These incentives help attract top-tier talent in food innovation.
Total Compensation Potential

When factoring in base salary, bonuses, stock options, and research incentives, the total compensation for an R&D Manager in Organic Food Production can range from $100,000 to $180,000 annually.
How to Apply

If you are a passionate and innovative leader in organic food research and development, we invite you to apply for the R&D Manager – Organic Food Production role. This is a unique opportunity to drive product innovation, enhance sustainability efforts, and lead groundbreaking research in the organic food industry.

To apply, please submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your experience in:
✅ New product development for organic or natural foods
✅ Regulatory compliance (USDA Organic, Non-GMO, etc.)
✅ Food science and sustainability innovations
✅ Process optimization and cost-effective R&D strategies
✅ Cross-functional leadership in product formulation and commercialization

This role offers a high-impact career opportunity where you will play a crucial role in shaping the future of organic food production, fostering innovation, and driving sustainable food solutions.

📩 Apply today and take the next step in your R&D career as an R&D Manager – Organic Food Production!

For more details or to explore similar opportunities, visit our Food Industry Careers Page.

Tags:

R&D Manager | Organic Food Research | Food Innovation | Product Development | Sustainability | USDA Organic Compliance | Food Science | Process Optimization | Organic Industry Jobs