R&D Technical Scientist

Job Summary

Reporting to the Research and Development Manager, the R&D Technical Scientist applies scientific expertise, experimental methods, and manufacturing knowledge to research, develop, and improve ice cream and frozen-dessert products, ingredients, formulas, and processes. The role plans and conducts benchtop and pilot-plant studies, manages technical formulas and research documentation, evaluates new materials and technologies, and collaborates with internal departments, suppliers, academic partners, customers, and other external stakeholders. The position also supports regulatory and food-safety compliance, knowledge transfer, technical training, and the successful commercialization of new and renovated products.

Key Responsibilities:

• Plan and conduct well thought out internal research studies to expand the department’s knowledge of ingredients, formulations, processes, and emerging technologies as well as technical investigations.
• Plans and performs benchtop and pilot-plant experiments for product and process improvements.
• Leads or supports product-development and research projects from initial concept through commercial launch, coordinating activities with cross-functional teams, suppliers, customers, academic partners, and other external resources.
• Reviews scientific literature, technical papers, supplier information, and academic research; translates relevant findings into practical recommendations and project plans.
• Develops, evaluates, and maintains formulas, ingredient information, product specifications, experimental records, and other technical documentation.
• Assesses new ingredients and materials for technical suitability and supports confirmation of compliance with applicable regulatory, allergen, food-safety, and internal requirements.
• Plans, conducts, and documents sensory evaluations for ongoing research studies and new and existing products if required.
• Prepares and coordinates the distribution of product samples for internal reviews, customers, and other stakeholders.
• Creates and updates departmental standard operating procedures, plant procedures, technical tools, and related work instructions, as assigned.
• Uses Genesis, Microsoft 365 applications, and internal systems to support formulation, analysis, documentation, and project execution; contributes to the improvement of technical tools and processes.
• Maintains complete and accurate project files to support traceability, knowledge transfer, and retention of technical learning.
• Provides technical guidance and training to new and existing team members on ingredients, formulations, processes, research methods, and departmental practices.
• Comply with all workplace safety, food-safety, Good Manufacturing Practice, and company requirements.
• Performs other related duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications:

• Master’s degree (or equivalent) in food science, food technology, or a related scientific field with proven experience in carrying out research projects.
• Minimum five years of experience in applied research, or a related technical field within a manufacturing environment.
• Strong technical knowledge of food ingredients, formulation principles, manufacturing processes.
• Demonstrate ability to apply scientific methods, critical thinking, and structured problem-solving to technical challenges.
• Knowledge of applicable food regulations, allergen controls, food-safety requirements, and Good Manufacturing Practices.
• Strong organizational and project-management skills, with the ability to prioritize multiple assignments, meet challenging deadlines, and work independently in a fast-paced environment.
• Excellent written and verbal communication, interpersonal, collaboration, and relationship-management skills.
• Demonstrate leadership skills and the ability to align cross-functional contributors, communicate expectations, and support timely completion of project tasks and training.
• Valid driver’s license and reliable access to transportation for business travel, as required.

Highly preferred qualifications:

• Product-development or applied-research experience in dairy, ice cream, or frozen desserts.

Working Conditions

Work is performed in office, laboratory, pilot-plant, and manufacturing environments, as well as at supplier, vendor, or customer locations when required. The role may involve exposure to cold temperatures, production noise, food ingredients and allergens, moving equipment, and other conditions typical of a food-manufacturing facility; required personal protective equipment and safety procedures must be followed. Occasional travel and work outside regular business hours may be required to support trials, production activities, or urgent operational needs.

What We Offer

• Opportunities for professional growth and development
• Permanent, year-round positions
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Group home and auto insurance
• Active social committee
• Subsidized lunches at our on-site cafeteria
• Work at a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Markdale, Ontario
• The chance to join an international, award-winning business - the largest ice cream manufacturer in Canada
• A positive workplace culture where we take pride in what we do and strive for excellence
• Free ice cream!

Compensation

At Chapman’s, compensation is guided by a pay-for-performance philosophy that recognizes and rewards individual contributions.

Salary

$85,000 to $110,000 salary range.

In addition to wages, employees will be eligible for:

• Regular wage reviews as part of a comprehensive total rewards package
• Retirement savings program, including a company-matching pension plan to support long-term financial planning
• Comprehensive extended health, dental, life, and disability benefits
• Mental health support as part of the benefits program

Disclaimer

This job description summarizes the general nature and level of work expected in this position. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, qualifications, or working conditions. Responsibilities may be adjusted, and employees may be assigned other related duties, based on operational requirements.