Research and Development Specialist in Dawsonville

Job Description

Support Innovation • Be Part of the Transformation • Grow Your Career

Join an established food manufacturer's most exciting strategic initiative!

gpac has partnered with a major poultry producer who has asked for a confidential search for a Research & Development Specialist to be a key member of their rebranding team, combining food science expertise with culinary skills to develop products that embody the new brand identity. This is your opportunity to gain cutting-edge retail product development experience while using your core R&D skills in a supportive team.

About the Company:

• Largest employer in the region with 4,500+ employees
• Top 5 producer of school lunch programs nationally
• Top 20 manufacturing companies in the state

What You'll Do:

• Support Product Development Manager on technical aspects of retail product innovation
• Conduct laboratory testing and analysis for new retail-focused products
• Assist with bench sample development and commercialization processes
• Maintain food safety protocols (HACCP, GMP, SQF) throughout development
• Document and analyze test results for product optimization
• Support sales presentations with technical data and product specifications

What We're Looking For:

• 3-5 years in food manufacturing required (poultry, strongly preferred)
• Laboratory and R&D experience with hands-on technical skills
• Food safety knowledge and understanding of quality assurance
• Bachelor's degree in food science, Chemistry, or related field (preferred)
• Team collaboration skills - you'll work closely with Product Development Manager
• Passionate about continuous learning and professional development.
• Knowledge of FSIS labeling and Nutritional Software is a plus

Why You'll Love This Role:

• Competitive salary: $45,000 - $60,000 + excellent benefits package
• Comprehensive benefits: Health, dental, vision, 401k with 4% company match
• HSA contribution: $1,000 annual company investment
• Job security: Essential support role for company's biggest strategic initiative
• Growth path: Opportunities within Sales, Customer Service, and potential department head

 This is a confidential search. Company details will be shared with qualified candidates.

Apply Now! Send your resume and availability to Tanya Allison at tanya.allison@gogpac.com for immediate consideration.

 Keywords: R&D Specialist, Food Science, Product Development, Research and Development, Culinary R&D, Food Safety (HACCP, SQF), Poultry Manufacturing, Brand Development, Commercialization, Trend Research Product Development Manager

All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, age, color, sex (including pregnancy), religion, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, military status, genetic information, or any other status protected by applicable laws or regulations. GPAC (Growing People and Companies) is an award-winning search firm specializing in placing quality professionals within multiple industries across the United States since 1990. We are extremely competitive, client-focused and realize that our value is in our ability to deliver the right solutions at the right time.