Test Baker, Product Innovation & Development
- Vancouver, BC
- $75,000-85,000 per year
- Permanent
- Full-time
- Managing the product innovation including conceptualization, design, creation, specification, and evaluation of new concepts/products for targeted markets
- Assist with test baking of new and existing ingredients and provide critical feedback as required by Supply Chain Team
- Manage the in-bakery trial process for new products
- Deliver test baking of product at monthly tastings meeting with Marketing
- Prepare content for all campaign briefs that highlight tips for network on focus products; including photos and videos as required
- Building key relationships with strategic suppliers to source new ingredients and vendors
- Supporting the evaluation of new product launches
- Stay abreast of trends and developments within the industry, channels, and techniques that will keep the brand in the forefront
- Monitor and communicate nutrition research and trends relevant to the category
- Prepare finished products to the highest standards for marketing activities including promotional materials, photoshoots, and customer events
- Assist with national baking competitions; diagnose product issues
- Make recommendations on ingredient substitution and use to the business
- Ensure content on Product page is up to date with current minutes and product information for the network
- Other duties as assigned
- 5+ years' proven experience in baking and product development, preferably within the retail, hospitality or manufacturing industries
- Advanced baking skills and understanding of baking techniques
- Extensive experience and passion for development of recipe, flavour, cost, and nutrition
- Knowledge of ingredients functionality, product evaluation,
- Knowledge of health and nutrition, food manufacturing processes, microbiology, quality assurance principles, market research principles
- Red Seal baker or equivalent is an asset
- Excellent verbal and written communications skills along with computer skills (MS Word and Excel)
- Knowledge of Retail, Consumer Packaged Goods and/or Franchising is an asset
- Strong project management skills in overseeing multiple projects and meeting tight deadlines with a sense of urgency
- Ability to work flexible schedule depending on the operational needs
- You enjoy a dynamic, fast pace environment
- Competitive salary and vacation plan, and company bonus plan
- A great Extended Health & Dental Benefits, Group RRSP Matching and Flexible Spending Account
- Paid sick and personal leave days, mental health day
- Paid day for community service/volunteer time
- An open, 'continuous-learning' environment where professional development and career progression is encouraged
- Work within a dynamic, driven, high-achieving, close-knit and fun-loving team
- High level of autonomy and responsibility
- Complimentary self-serve kitchen of fresh produce, deli meats and of course, COBS Bread and treats!