This opportunity is located within our AFB International business, the global science and technology leader in pet food palatability. We develop and produce a full range of liquid and dry palatability enhancers using high-quality ingredients proven to optimize companion animal response and consumption. Click here (http://afbinternational.com/about/) to learn more. Job Description Product Development Scientist AFB International | Research & Development About AFB International AFB International is a global science and technology leader in pet food palatability. We develop and manufacture a full portfolio of liquid and dry palatability enhancers that help pet food manufacturers create better-tasting dog and cat foods, treats, and supplements—products pets love and owner's trust. As a trusted partner to pet food manufacturers worldwide, we combine deep expertise in pet nutrition, flavor science, and food technology to meet the evolving needs of pets and pet parents. AFB International is part of Ensign-Bickford Industries (EBI), a privately held, high-technology company with a long history of innovation and growth. We operate globally, with offices and production facilities in the USA (global headquarters), Europe, Latin America, Mexico, Australia, and China. The Team The Science & Technology team is a global group within Research & Development responsible for shaping the future of our business. We think long-term, execute against global strategy, and develop the science, technology, tools, and intellectual property that fuel innovation, respond to market trends, and drive sustainable growth. Your Opportunity As a Product Development Scientist (level commensurate with experience and education), you will play a key role in advancing AFB’s product portfolio. You’ll drive product science from concept through commercialization—developing new palatants, scaling innovative technologies, managing technical risk, and supporting operations to ensure successful implementation. This is a hands-on, highly collaborative role for someone who enjoys working at the intersection of science, technology, and real-world manufacturing. You’ll report to the North American Head of Product and Process Sciences and collaborate closely with global, cross-functional teams. What You’ll Do + Develop new palatants and product solutions that meet internal goals and customer needs. + Lead product development projects from concept through lab, pilot, and production scale-up for both liquid and dry products. + Design and execute research plans, experiments, and DOE studies using tools such as JMP and DOE Stat Pro. + Apply expertise in food science, flavor chemistry, analytical chemistry, and food engineering—particularly for thermally processed products. + Partner cross-functionally with product, process, operations, supply chain, and customer engagement teams to deliver business priorities. + Provide technical support during scale-up and commercialization, including troubleshooting and supply assurance considerations. + Serve as a subject matter expert for assigned product lines. + Collect, analyze, document, and present data clearly to R&D leadership and stakeholders. + Manage multiple projects in a fast-paced, evolving environment while maintaining strong documentation and execution discipline. What You Bring Education & Experience + BS or MS in Food Science, Food Technology, Food Engineering, or a related scientific discipline. + Minimum of 2 years of product development and scale-up experience in the food industry. + Experience with thermal processing is a plus. + Knowledge of flavor science or flavor chemistry is desirable. Knowledge, Skills & Abilities + Strong foundation in food science principles and formulation development. + Experience working with food manufacturing and pilot-scale equipment (e.g., grinders, extrusion, canning, dry blending). + Familiarity with pet food and pet palatability is preferred. + Ability to design experiments, analyze data, and translate results into actionable insights. + Proficiency with MS Office tools, especially Excel, for data analysis and reporting. + Excellent communication skills and the ability to collaborate effectively across functions and geographies. + Organized, detail-oriented, and comfortable managing multiple priorities simultaneously. Competencies That Set You Apart + Intrapreneurial mindset with a passion for innovation and continuous learning. + Strong sense of ownership and accountability—from idea to execution. + Collaborative team player who thrives in cross-functional environments. + Results-driven and comfortable navigating ambiguity in dynamic settings. + Hands-on problem solver who enjoys working in lab, pilot, and manufacturing environments. + Clear communicator with strong analytical and presentation skills. Work Environment & Physical Requirements + Hands-on role requiring work in laboratory, pilot plant, and production environments. + Ability to stand for extended periods and lift up to 50 pounds. + Exposure to moving mechanical parts and moderate to high noise levels in production settings. AFB International is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE). Qualified applicants are considered for employment without regard to race, religion, color, sex, age, disability, sexual orientation, genetic information, national origin, or veteran status. Ensign-Bickford Industries, (http://e-bind.com) (EBI), founded in 1836, is a privately-owned high technology conglomerate that participates in businesses that are relevant to the future of the world and have multigenerational growth prospects. As One EBI, we innovate in science and technology for the safety, health, and well-being of society, creating exceptional long-term value. Watch the video above to learn more about some of the incredible challenges we take on every day to deliver the best product for our customers, and ultimately the world. Ensign-Bickford Industries (EBI) is a global science and technology organization with unparalleled leadership positions in attractive industries and markets. We are EBI, positioned to take on some of the world's most complex technological and scientific challenges in diagnostics, pet food science, and aerospace and defense. Click here to learn about our Core Values (https://ensign-bickfordind.com/ebi-core-values/) We conduct business in a manner that reflects the highest human and ethical standards. With that commitment to mutually beneficial partnerships and a belief in the efficacy of genuine economic and social service, this cornerstone is the foundation of who we are as a company and our winning vision. AFB International (http://www.ensign-bickfordind.com/subsidiaries/afb-international/) + AFB is the leader in pet food flavor enhancers. Ensuring product performance for pet food manufacturers—and their customers—is our business. ⠀ Cawood (https://cawood.co.uk/) + Cawood is the UK’s leading scientific group, recognized for its technical capability and value-added service to customers in land-based industries. ⠀ Ensign-Bickford Aerospace & Defense Company (http://www.ensign-bickfordind.com/subsidiaries/ensign-bickford-aerospace-defense/) + EBAD is a global leader in precision energetic systems and other innovative explosives, non-explosive and electromechanical solutions for the defense and aerospace markets. ⠀ EnviroLogix (http://www.ensign-bickfordind.com/subsidiaries/envirologix-inc/) + EnviroLogix is an industry leader in the development and manufacturing of tests for the rapid detection of GMOs and mycotoxins throughout the worldwide food production chain.