Do you want to realize your ambitions while being part of a principle driven organization that aspires to transform its business through powerful Brands? At LT Foods Americas (LTFA), we have an ambition to become a Food business driven by the 5 principles that underpin everything we do: Business Ethics, Innovation, Ownership, Passion for Excellence, & Customer Centricity. We are seeking associates who want to drive meaning in their work that benefits them, the organization and the world around us. What you get at LTFA is challenging, interesting work with opportunities to grow in the U.S, Europe & beyond. You get the tools you need to do an excellent job and you have smart, motivated people around you to help you do it! It’s about having ideas. And ideals. Being prepared to risk failure because the promise of success means we’ll all be a little better off. It’s that mix of integrity and ambition that makes LTFA such a special place to work. And why working here is always about more than just a job.
LT Foods Americas (LTFA) is part of LT Foods Limited, an emerging global food company, with Net Sales in excess of $1 billion globally, operating across a range of categories including specialty rice, organic foods and convenience rice based products. The Company is engaged in milling, processing and marketing of branded and non-branded basmati rice, and manufacturing of rice food products in India & international market. LT Foods has a global presence including India, Middle East, United Kingdom, Europe and United States. Its operations include contract farming, procurement, storage, processing, packaging and distribution. Its rice product portfolio comprises brown, white, steamed, parboiled, organic, quick cooking brown rice, and ready-to-heat rice. The Company's brands include DAAWAT®, ROYAL®; 817 ELEPHANT®, INDUS VALLEY®, ECOLIFE® & GRAPEOLA®.
LT Foods Americas is looking for a Product Development Technician based out of our Missouri City, TX facility. As a Product Development Technician, you will be responsible for conceptualizing, developing, and launching innovative Ready to Heat food products that showcase the rich and diverse flavors of various culinary traditions. You will work closely with cross-functional teams including R&D, marketing, and quality assurance to ensure our products meet consumer expectations and company standards.
Key Responsibilities:
- Develop new product concepts that reflect authentic flavors and culinary techniques of different cuisines.
- Collaborate with chefs and suppliers to create and refine recipes.
- Conduct sensory evaluations and taste tests to ensure product quality and consistency.
- Coordinate and collaborate with Project Manager and cross-functional teams to ensure seamless product development and launch.
- Develop specifications for all raw materials, process controls, and finished goods.
- Manage scale up trials of products in collaboration with Operation leaders.
- Test and ensure food concepts are shelf stable and food safe. Work with 3rd party labs to test and analyze products.
- Develop and maintain food product labeling that complies with regulatory requirements and/or customer requirements. Produce product specification sheets.
- Address and resolve any product issues or quality concerns promptly.
- Work closely with the marketing team to develop compelling product positioning and promotional strategies.
- Engage with suppliers and manufacturers to source high-quality ingredients and materials.
- Ensure accurate and timely reporting of product development activities to key stakeholders.
Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in food science, Food Technology, or a closely related field from an accredited 4-year college. Higher education (e.g., Master of Science) in Food Science, Food Technology or a closely related field is preferred.
- 5+ years of progressive experience in R&D and new product development.
- Advanced knowledge of the process and methods for developing and commercializing shelf-stable foods.
- Advanced knowledge of extensive areas of food science and technology and experimental procedures
- Working understanding of retort processing of foods.
- Working understanding of Project management – plan, coordinate, communicate progress and challenges, execute project activities.
- Proficient ability to work with third party manufacturers (co-manufacturers, co-packers) in developing products.
- Expert ability to muti-task and contribute to many projects at the same time.
- Ability to seek and be open to new experiences with different food from other cultures and enjoy foods in a different way.
- Ability to consistently demonstrate LTFA values of passion for excellence, curiosity, collaboration, critical thinking and emotional intelligence.
- Curious: A genuine interest in exploring new ingredients, flavors, and culinary techniques to stay ahead of food trends.
- Analytical Thinking: Strong skills in analyzing information to make data-driven decisions.
- Consumer-Centric Mindset: Focus on understanding and meeting the needs and preferences of target consumers.
- Cultural Sensitivity: Awareness and appreciation for diverse culinary traditions and consumer tastes, especially in a global context.
- Passion for Food: A deep love and enthusiasm for food.
