Research & Development Scientist I

Summary

Job Title: Research & Development Scientist I - Product Development and Innovation

Location: North Brunswick, New Jersey / NoHo, NYC. (This position requires relocation to our NoHo (New York City) location approximately one year from now.)

Our Research and Development department is at the forefront of product development and innovation. It is easy to be dedicated when you're a part of something much bigger than yourself. We've got an unbridled appetite for making a difference. The ideal R&D Dairy Scientist I candidate will have an integral role in leading the product development of our next wave of product innovations, while also lending technical support to our growing base business. We are looking for a candidate with a strong food science foundation, and a demonstrated expertise in product innovation, to help Chobani advance its' mission of making healthy and delicious plant-based foods.

Responsibilities

• Implement research and development plans and strategies for product development in support of company objectives
• Design and conduct experiments based on project objectives, excellent record keeping, data collection and analysis and preparing project summaries
• Plan and carry out development work in lab and pilot scale; design, develop, and lead tests to qualify new products and to support changes to existing products
• Conduct analytical measurements like, pH, viscosity, density, able to design and conduct shelf-life studies, brix, total solids etc.
• Coordinate technical development projects focusing on product development, process, and product care to help Chobani improve and launch more innovative food and beverage products
• Lead and document development projects all the way from conceptualization to commercialization - this includes budget and target within certain time constraints
• Communicate project requirements and recommendations as well as status to internal customers and external partners
• Lead, assist, and work directly with plant processing and production personnel to ensure trial runs and start-up operations are properly performed
• Follow Chobani's safety procedures and Good Manufacturing procedures and practices

Requirements

• Minimum B.S. in food science or related degree. Advanced degree strongly preferred
• 1-3 years of food industry experience required, dairy and/or non-dairy is preferred
• Extensive ingredient (stabilizers & fortification), flavor development, and product stability knowledge
• Background in process and product development and commercialization of food processes is required. Dairy or Dairy Alternative processing would be a big bonus. Record of leading product development projects including timeline development/management, testing/trials, operational launch and scale
• Familiarity with basic research tools and statistical analysis
• Thrive in ambiguity and are motivated by the process of building something from the ground up
• Highly developed curiosity for understanding complex food systems from a physical and chemical perspective
• Maintain clean & safe manufacturing environment within all facilities
• Excellent written and verbal communication
• Must be a self-starter able to work in a fast-paced environment and handle multiple projects/tasks at any given time
• Willingness to travel (10-20%)

About Us

Chobani is a food maker with a mission of making high-quality and nutritious food accessible to more people, while elevating our communities and making the world a healthier place. In short: making good food for all. In support of this mission, Chobani is a purpose-driven, people-first, food-and-wellness-focused company, and has been since its founding in 2005 by Hamdi Ulukaya, an immigrant to the U.S. The Company manufactures yogurt, oat milk, and creamers - Chobani yogurt is America's No.1 yogurt brand, made with natural ingredients without artificial preservatives. Following the 2023 acquisition of La Colombe, a leading coffee roaster with a shared commitment to quality, craftmanship and impact, the Company began selling cold-pressed espresso and lattes on tap at cafés nationwide, as well as Ready to Drink (RTD) coffee beverages at retail. In 2025, Chobani acquired Daily Harvest, a modern brand offering consumers nutritious, delicious and convenient ready-to-make meals.

Chobani uses food as a force for good in the world - putting humanity first in everything it does. The company's philanthropic efforts prioritize giving back to its communities and beyond. Chobani manufactures its products in New York, Idaho, Michigan and Australia, and its products are available throughout North America and distributed in Australia and other select markets.

For more information, please visit or follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn.

Chobani is an equal opportunity employer. Chobani will not discriminate against any applicant for employment on any basis including, but not limited to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, military and/or veteran status, marital status, predisposing genetic characteristics and genetic information, or any other classification protected by federal, state, and local laws.

Chobani provides a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, vision coverage, disability insurance, health savings account, flexible spending accounts, and tuition reimbursement. To help save for the future, all employees are eligible for a 401k match of 100% on up to 5% of eligible pay. To support growing families, we provide fertility and childcare assistance, and 12 weeks of parental leave at full pay after six months of continuous employment. In addition, we provide wellness resources which include an employee assistance program, fitness discounts, a wellness reimbursement, on-site gym access (certain locations) and a monthly wellness newsletter to connect you with resources and timely information. We offer various types of paid time of including: 120 hours of paid time off, 11 holidays, paid volunteer time off and military service leave.

Compensation Range: $68,000.00 - $103,000.00, plus bonus.