Food Scientist (Beverage)

Manta Search is representing a fast-growing functional food and beverage brand in its search for a hands-on Food Scientist to lead formulation across its product pipeline. This person will own new product innovation and the renovation of existing products across ready-to-drink (RTD) beverages, powdered instant, and future formats. The role reports to the Senior Director of R&D and works closely with Regulatory, Quality, Operations, and the in-house Lab Team. What You'll Do Lead formula development from concept through co-manufacturer qualification and commercial production, for both new launches and improvements to products already on shelf Apply formulation science across formats, including liquid beverage chemistry (emulsification, pH, pasteurization, shelf stability) and powdered formulation (solubility, moisture control, blend uniformity) Partner with co-manufacturers on technical evaluations, line troubleshooting, and QC standards Build ingredient validation protocols and backup supplier qualification processes that meet retail audit standards Create sensory specifications and pass/fail standards with Quality and Sensory teams Guide third-party lab testing and work with Regulatory to align ingredient dosages with claim requirements Collaborate with Marketing and leadership to ensure product concepts are both commercially viable and scientifically sound Help shape stage-gate processes and technical documentation as the team scales What You Bring 3+ years of food or beverage formulation experience (beverage preferred) A track record of personally taking a product from concept through a co-manufacturer to retail shelf, including time on the production floor Deep technical expertise in at least one commercial format (liquid, powdered, or similar) and an eagerness to learn others Experience building sensory specs and validation protocols that hold up at commercial scale Bachelor's degree or higher in Food Science, Food Technology, Chemistry, or a related field Sound judgment on when a decision needs rigor and when it can move fast High standards for quality and a builder's mindset for creating new products, systems, and processes Nice to Have Experience with functional ingredients such as adaptogens, mushroom extracts, nootropics, or botanicals Background at a better-for-you or natural brand that has scaled through retailers like Target, Whole Foods, Kroger, or Costco Familiarity with structure/function claims and dosage regulations Why This Role This is a chance to shape a growing product portfolio and the processes behind it. The right person will have real ownership, direct impact on what hits shelves, and a cross-functional team that values strong science. #J-18808-Ljbffr Manta Search