Our client is one of the nation’s leading dietary supplement formulation and custom packaging companies. They specialize in custom dry-dosage formula solutions, from shelf-stable probiotics to vitamins and minerals. They are the largest supplier of store brand probiotics, and they have completed and launched the first USP Verified probiotic supplement. They seek a Gummy formulator to be based in their Southern California research center.

The ideal candidate for R&D Gummy Formulator will possess a solid work track record of excellent attendance, the proven ability to meet deadlines and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment and maintain outstanding organizational skills. They will play a critical role in the gummy manufacturing process, and as such, must possess the ability to juggle multiple tasks, communicate effectively and have a razor-sharp eye for detail.

  • Strong problem-solving skills and ability to work collaboratively with cross functional groups to solve problems and influence internal and external groups.
  • Develops formulas/quotes for all gummy projects.
  • Improvement in First Time Right metrics related to yield non-conformance, reduction of rework and destruction cost.
  • Individual must be professional, committed, detail oriented, and possess good mathematical, written, clerical and organizational skills.
  • Knowledge pertaining to the nutraceutical industry in general and the gummy manufacturing process in particular and must be well versed in a variety of ingredients, their usage, forms, activities and all other relevant physical characteristics.
  • Experience in gummy formulation and manufacturing on starchless lines is required with a strong preference for pectin gummies.
  • Must demonstrate a high level of self-confidence and common sense. A strong level of computer literacy is required in this position. Microsoft Excel will be used on a regular basis.
  • This person must be able to work through common R&D and formulation problems independently.
  • The R&D Gummy Formulator will report directly to the Director of R&D.

Essential Job Functions
Primary responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

  • Development of gummy formulas for the generation of quotes for new and existing business opportunities.
  • Review and approval of deviations, including process modification if required per deviations, provide impact statement.
  • Consulting with product development on an as needed basis, writing process improvement plans based on product performance history.
  • Collaborating with the R&D Innovations team in the development of new formulas in gummy form, as well as to modify/correct existing formulas as deemed necessary; checking and approval of documents such as Product Label Information (PLI), Nutritional Information, Start Up’s for creating Master Formulas and Manufacturing Directions etc.
  • Understanding and usage of current FDA nutritional/supplement fact information and standards while formulating.
  • Adhering to company guidelines, including cGMPs, SOPs and safety procedures.
  • Perform R&D laboratory pilots. Understand the process for each final product type and give and utilize feedback as needed.
  • Interfacing with internal departments including purchasing, manufacturing, inventory control, quality assurance/ quality control, sales and customer service as required.
  • Lead all internal gummy project collaborations with QA/QC or customer gummy projects as required.
  • Work closely with Production team when new products start production and help design process efficiencies in manufacturing of existing formulas.
  • Work with the Purchasing Department to assist in the evaluation of new and alternate supplier for raw materials.
  • Understand the basic costing/quoting process and help troubleshoot issues as needed.
  • Spearhead formulation revisions for production level pilot batches as needed.
  • Keeping up to date on regulatory, innovative and industry wide changes.

Work Experience Requirements

  • A minimum of 5 years of experience in the development confection or dietary supplement gummy products.
  • Ability to read, write and speak English fluently. (Bilingual Spanish a plus).
  • Ability to add, subtract, multiply, and divide in all units of measure, using whole numbers, common fractions and decimals. Must be able to calculate potencies to meet label claims.
  • Understanding of formulation cost and pricing analysis.
  • Ability to work with minimal supervision while remaining productive at all times.
  • Ability to compute rate, ratio, and percentages. Familiarity with the metric system.
  • Ability to handle multiple, rapidly changing and conflicting priorities.
  • Excellent verbal and written communications skills and phone etiquette.
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office suite, including Word, Excel and Outlook. Accurate typing ability.
  • Ability to juggle multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment with excellent attention to detail.

Education Requirements

  • BS ; and 2-5 years related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience  in Product Development/ Manufacturing Technology in the Nutraceutical Industry.

For more information contact Moira McGrath at (954) 428-3888 or moira@foodscience.com