Senior Product Development Engineer

Relate Search is partnering with a rapidly growing consumer products manufacturer in search of a Principal Product Development Engineer to serve as the technical authority for soft chew product innovation and commercialization. This highly visible leadership role will drive formulation and process development efforts across regulated consumer products while establishing the technical standards, stage-gate rigor, and commercialization readiness needed to scale innovation successfully. The ideal candidate will bring deep expertise in soft chew confectionery systems, a structured approach to product development, and the ability to mentor scientists and engineers while partnering closely with Quality, Regulatory, Operations, and Commercial teams. This role offers the opportunity to shape the future of a growing product portfolio while elevating technical capabilities across the organization. Responsibilities Lead the development and commercialization of soft chew product platforms, translating product concepts into robust, manufacturable formulations and scalable processes. Drive data-based product development through Design of Experiments (DOE), Critical Process Parameter (CPP), and Critical Quality Attribute (CQA) methodologies to improve process understanding and commercialization success. Establish and govern technical stage-gate standards, validation strategies, stability programs, and change control processes to ensure commercialization readiness. Partner cross-functionally with Quality, Regulatory, Operations, Supply Chain, and Commercial teams to ensure successful scale-up from bench development through full production. Mentor and develop scientists and engineers while building technical systems, best practices, and development standards that elevate organizational capability. Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in Food Science, Chemical Engineering, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chemistry, or a related scientific discipline. 10+ years of product development, formulation, process development, or related technical leadership experience. Deep expertise developing and commercializing soft chew confectionery systems with demonstrated experience scaling products from bench through commercial manufacturing. Strong experience utilizing DOE methodologies, statistical analysis tools, CPP/CQA frameworks, and data-driven process development approaches. Experience operating within regulated environments such as OTC, dietary supplements, pharmaceuticals, or food manufacturing, with strong knowledge of cGMP requirements and commercialization processes. Opportunity to serve as the technical leader for a high-growth innovation platform. Highly visible role with direct influence on product strategy, commercialization, and technical standards. Ability to mentor and develop a growing team of scientists and engineers. Cross-functional exposure across R&D, Operations, Quality, Regulatory, and Commercial leadership teams. Competitive compensation and comprehensive benefits package. About Relate Search Relate Search is a Woman, Minority, and LGBTQIA+ owned executive and professional search firm dedicated to connecting top talent with meaningful opportunity. With deep expertise across Supply Chain & Operations, Technology, Sales & Marketing, Human Resources, and Accounting & Finance, we deliver customized, people-first recruiting solutions that drive lasting impact. Equal Opportunity & Diversity Statement Relate Search is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We value diversity and are committed to building inclusive teams where everyone belongs. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply. #J-18808-Ljbffr