R&D Product Developer
About the Role:
We have a current opening for an R&D Product Developer and are actively reviewing applications.
The R&D Product Developer is part of the R&D function and is responsible for supporting the development and industrialization of innovative products within the Power Crunch portfolio, while contributing to established brands such as Keebler and Mother’s Cookies across the broader Baked category. This role focuses on translating product concepts into scalable, high-quality products that meet business and consumer expectations.
In this role, you will contribute to product development projects from formulation through plant trials and commercialization, working closely with cross-functional teams including Marketing, Operations, and Supply Chain. You will also support the continuous improvement of existing products and processes, ensuring consistent performance and successful adaptation to the North American market.
Main Responsibilities:
- Support the development and industrialization of new products within the Power Crunch portfolio, while contributing to innovation and renovation across Keebler, Mother’s Cookies, and other baked categories
- Execute product formulation development and support scale-up from laboratory to manufacturing
- Plan and support plant trials for new products and process improvements across Ferrero facilities and co-manufacturers
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams (Marketing, Operations, Supply Chain, Procurement, Quality) to support timely and effective project execution
- Work with global R&D teams to adapt formulations and technologies for the North American market
- Provide technical support to manufacturing teams to ensure product quality and process consistency
- Identify opportunities for continuous improvement in existing products, processes, and raw materials
- Support optimization of manufacturing processes and equipment performance
About You:
- Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Food Science, Chemical Engineering, Nutrition, or a related field
- 2–5 years of experience in FMCG R&D, product development, or process engineering, with exposure to product scale-up and commercialization
- Hands-on experience with formulation development, pilot trials, and/or manufacturing environments
- Understanding of food processing technologies, ingredient functionality, and quality standards
- Ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams and external partners (e.g., co-manufacturers)
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to interpret data and support technical decision-making
- Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
Artificial Intelligence Disclosure
As part of our recruitment process, Ferrero may use artificial intelligence (AI) enabled tools to assist with reviewing candidate applications. These tools are used solely to support recruiters by summarizing application information and identifying potential alignment with job requirements. AI does not independently screen out or select candidates, and it does not replace human judgment. Final decisions regarding candidate progression are always made by Ferrero recruiters and hiring managers.
Our Benefits & Perks:
Careers with caring built in - discover our benefits here.
The base compensation range for this position is $96,708 - $128,944. Actual compensation will be determined based on experience, qualifications, and other job-related factors permitted by law. This range represents the anticipated salary for this position at this time.
In addition to base salary, we offer a comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, retirement plans, paid time off, and other benefits.
About Ferrero:
Ferrero began its journey in the small town of Alba in Piedmont, Italy, in 1946. Today, it is one of the world’s largest sweet-packaged food companies, with many iconic brands sold in countries all over the world. Find out more about Ferrero at ferrero.com.
DE&I at Ferrero:
Ferrero is committed to building a diverse and inclusive culture in which all employees feel welcomed and appreciated and have the same opportunities. We believe all our people are equally talented in their own way. In nurturing the curiosity and natural abilities of our employees, we provide them, generation after generation, the means to succeed personally and professionally, enabling them to craft their journey at Ferrero. The diversity of our talents is what makes our work environment multicultural, innovative, and highly rewarding.
Find out more here.
Ferrero is an equal opportunity employer and complies with all applicable human rights laws. Ferrero will recruit, hire, train, and promote all persons without regard to race, creed, color, sex (including pregnancy, gender, sexual orientation, and gender identity), religion, national origin or ancestry, age, disability, or history of disability (except where physical or mental abilities are a bona fide occupational requirement and the individual is not able to perform the essential functions of the position even with reasonable accommodations), citizenship, or any other protected characteristic.
Ferrero will accommodate the needs of applicants with disabilities throughout all stages of the selection process. If you need accommodation during the recruitment process, please advise the People & Organization (HR) Representative. Information relating to the need for accommodation and accommodation measures will be addressed confidentially.
Nearest Major Market: Chicago