Job Title: R&D Food Technologist
Location: Oakdale CA
Salary Range: $65000-$85000 annually (commensurate with experience)
About: At Sconza Candy Company were passionate about crafting exceptional candies through innovative candy making techniques. Based in Oakdale California our family-owned company has been a leader in confectionery manufacturing for over 85 years. Were seeking a talented R&D Food Technologist to join our dynamic team and drive the creation of delicious market-leading products.
Job Summary: As an R&D Food Technologist you will lead the formulation development and optimization of new candy products. Reporting to the Product Development Manager you will collaborate with a small team to innovate ensure product quality and support food safety initiatives. This role requires a strong food science background hands-on product development experience and familiarity with manufacturing environments.
Key Responsibilities:
- Develop and refine candy formulations to create innovative products that meet consumer trends and quality standards.
- Conduct ideation sessions and research to propose new product concepts and improvements to existing products.
- Create accurate ingredient declarations and nutritional information ensuring compliance with FDA regulations and certification programs (e.g. organic RSPO kosher etc.).
- Collaborate with production teams to scale formulations from lab to manufacturing optimizing processes for efficiency and quality.
- Conduct shelf-life studies sensory evaluations and analytical tests (e.g. water activity pH defect analysis) to maintain product excellence.
- Stay current on industry trends confectionery innovations and regulatory requirements to drive continuous improvement.
- Perform additional duties as needed to support the product development teams objectives.
Qualifications:
- Bachelors degree in Food Science Chemistry or a related field.
- Minimum of 2 years of experience in food science and product development preferably in confectionery or food manufacturing.
- Experience in a food manufacturing environment with knowledge of production processes (candy experience strongly preferred).
- Strong analytical skills to troubleshoot formulation and process challenges.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel Word Outlook) and familiarity with ERP systems (e.g. Sage) preferred.
- Excellent oral and written communication skills for cross-functional collaboration.
- Knowledge of HACCP CGMP allergen management and regulatory compliance (FDA RSPO organic standards).
- Ability to manage multiple projects in a fast-paced environment with strong attention to detail.
Benefits:
- Competitive salary: $65000-$85000 annually based on experience and qualifications.
- 401(k) with company match.
- Comprehensive health dental and vision insurance.
- Paid time off and 11 paid holidays.
- Opportunity to innovate in a specialized growing confectionery company.
Why Join Us
Be part of a creative collaborative team dedicated to crafting high-quality candies. Your expertise will shape the future of our products from concept to consumer in a role that blends science innovation and hands-on manufacturing. Grow your career in a supportive environment with opportunities to make a tangible impact.