Manager, Product Development (Atlanta, GA)

Our Customer is an American multinational beverage corporation headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia. Their many interests include the manufacturing, retailing, and marketing of nonalcoholic beverage concentrates and syrups. They are passionate about beverages around the world, with around 200 brands and 700,000+ employees across the company and bottling partners. They take deliberate action to nurture an inclusive culture that is grounded in their company purpose, to refresh the world and make a difference. They believe their culture is one of the reasons their company continues to thrive after 130+ years.

We are seeking a Product Development Manager on a contract basis who will support the Customer’s business needs. This role is on-site in Atlanta, GA.

NOTE: Candidates must have their own laptops, but this will potentially be provided by the customer.

Responsibilities:

• Conduct product development activities within the sports drink category from concept through commercialization
• Design, develop, and execute new beverage formulations using food science, sensory, analytical, microbiology, and engineering principles
• Support base business maintenance and productivity initiatives as needed
• Independently lead multi-disciplinary product development projects
• Prepare, manage, and safeguard proprietary formulas, specifications, and technical information
• Support product commercialization activities, including scale-up and transition to manufacturing
• Serve as a technical consultant by responding to targeted requests related to formulations, processes, and specifications
• Collaborate with internal cross-functional partners and external suppliers to deliver product innovation
• Research and evaluate new trends, technologies, and developments within the beverage industry
• Apply best practices in record keeping, laboratory safety, and compliance
• Communicate technical findings clearly to support business decisions and drive product improvements

Skills and Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Food Science or a related scientific discipline
• Master’s degree preferred
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in food or beverage product development
• Strong understanding of food chemistry, food process technology, microbiology, sensory science, and laboratory safety
• Experience leading projects independently within a research and development environment
• Proven ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams and global business partners
• Strong communication, time management, and organizational skills
• Experience working with proprietary formulations and confidential technical data
• Ability to identify and resolve ingredient, formulation, and process-related issues

We offer a competitive salary range for this position. Most candidates who join our team are hired at the median of this range, ensuring fair and equitable compensation based on experience and qualifications.

Contractor benefits are available through our 3rd Party Employer of Record (Available upon completion of waiting period for eligible engagements) Benefits include: Medical, Dental, Vision, 401k.

An Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or protected veteran status and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability.