Product Development Specialist - Joe Produce | Produce Jobs, Produce Careers, Agriculture Jobs, Agriculture Careers

Product Development Specialist

Job Description: 

Sunset Produce is the leading greenhouse vegetable company on the continent, growing and selling world-class tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, baby eggplants, lettuce and berries. To continue to lead the industry in greenhouse growing, we pioneer new greenhouse technology and sustainable growing practices. We also believe in giving back to the community and environment, which have helped us achieve our success.

Come join our team in Kingsville, Ontario! We are currently seeking an energetic and innovative Product Development Specialist.  

The position will report directly to the Director of Purchasing, and will drive the development of new products and packaging, that will keep Mastonardi Produce/Sunset on the leading edge of product innovation.

This position will take on the function of an operational/project manager who will need consumer, marketing and product knowledge.  You will also be a liaison between many internal departments and external suppliers.

Compensation/Salary: 
DOE
Requirements: 
  • An undergraduate degree, college diploma or similar in operational planning.
  • 5-8 years of work experience in a fast-paced environment.
  • 3D Software Knowledge is an asset (SolidWorks/CAD).
  • Ability to work independently and manage many details and projects simultaneously.
  • An understanding of mechanical and/or produce/consumer packaging processes.
  • Outstanding organizational skills.
  • Strong communication skills.
  • Work experience in fresh produce and/or product development an asset.
  • Some knowledge of consumer food trends and the retail grocery environment.
  • A positive attitude, lots of energy, confidence, open mind, and high personal standards of integrity and professionalism.
  • Self-directed, critical thinker and result focused.
  • Creative problem-solver with proven project management skills.

Working Conditions:

  • Normal office environment.
  • Must be capable of lifting up to 30 lbs.
  • Position requires sitting, standing, walking and bending on a regular basis.
  • Must have manual dexterity to perform computer skills.
Responsibilities & Duties: 
  • Identify new product opportunities:
    • Working with the Marketing team to use consumer and retail trends to deliver on emerging needs.
    • Staying abreast of current industry and competitive trends.
  • Source and screen outside suppliers as necessary (travel trade shows, etc).
  • Create and manage new product development project plans including: critical timelines and working with key stakeholders.
  • Work with Procurement & Operations to create and test prototypes of new products and packaging.
  • Work with QA & Post Harvest to oversee and track shelf life studies.
  • Communicate updates and recommendations with the team.
  • Work with Sales & Marketing, and Quality and Operations to create execution/launch plans and materials to ensure a successful launch.
  • Enhance departmen's and organization's reputation by accepting ownership for accomplishing new and different requests; exploring opportunities to add value to job accomplishments.
  • Performs any other duties related to the position as required.

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