Product Development Scientist

Job Overview This role leads the formulation and scale‑up of powdered beverage systems—with an emphasis on single‑serve platforms —by applying engineering fundamentals, material science, and product development best practices. The Sr Product Development Scientist will design powders that meet performance, nutrition, and sensory targets while remaining robust in manufacturing, packaging, and consumer use. Key Responsibilities Develop and optimize powdered beverage formulations (coffee‑adjacent, functional, dairy/non‑dairy, flavored systems) for single‑serve and other preparations. Apply engineering and physical chemistry principles (thermodynamics, mass/heat transfer, fluid flow, particle interactions) to improve dissolution, dispersion, stability, and consistency. Design powders with controlled flowability, density, hygroscopicity, agglomeration, and dissolution kinetics. Partner closely with R&D, Sensory, Nutrition, Packaging, Procurement, and Operations to transition formulations from bench to commercialization. Lead pilot‑and plant‑scale trials; define critical material attributes (CMAs) and critical process parameters (CPPs). Diagnose and resolve manufacturing and field issues related to powder handling, fill performance, clumping, segregation, or consumer prep in collaboration with processing engineers. Document formulations, specifications, and experimental results; contribute to technical readiness and risk assessments. Support innovation platforms requiring nutritional claims (protein, functionality, reduced sugar, fortification, etc.) and understand formulation implications. Total Rewards Salary range: $76,400 – $115,000 Actual placement within the compensation range may vary depending on experience, skills, and other factors. Benefits, subject to election and eligibility: Medical, Dental, Vision, Disability, Paid Time Off (including paid parental leave, vacation, and sick time), 401(k) with company match, Tuition Reimbursement, and Mileage Reimbursement. Annual bonus based on performance and eligibility. Requirements Bachelor’s degree in Food Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Food Science, Materials Science, or related field. MS or PhD preferred. 7+ years of experience in product development or processing, preferably developing dry powders or granulated food systems (beverages strongly preferred). Strong working knowledge of: Powder flow and bulk solids behavior. Thermal and mass transfer. Dissolution and rehydration mechanics. Particle size distribution and morphology. Experience translating lab formulations to pilot and full‑scale manufacturing. Preferred / Differentiating Skills Experience with single‑serve formats. Understanding of nutritional ingredients and claims (protein systems, sweeteners, fibers, fortification). Familiarity with agglomeration, spray drying, blending, or densification processes. Ability to apply engineering thinking within a consumer‑led product development environment. Strong technical communication and cross‑functional influence. Experience with coffee‑based beverages. Equal Opportunity Employment Keurig Dr Pepper is an equal‑opportunity employer and hires qualified applicants regardless of race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, disability, or any other status protected by law. #J-18808-Ljbffr