Company Description
GoodPop makes delicious frozen treats with simple, feel-good ingredients and a mission-driven heart. From organic fruit pops to low-sugar options, we're redefining what indulgence can look like. As a fast-growing brand, we're looking for a creative, curious, and detail-oriented intern to support our influencer and social marketing efforts.
Job Overview
The Product Development Scientist will support product development and day-to-day R&D operations, working closely with the R&D Director to bring products from concept to commercialization. This role is highly hands-on and spans benchtop formulation, sample preparation, product testing, technical documentation, and scale-up support at co-manufacturing partners.
Success in this role requires strong technical execution, attention to detail, and the ability to manage multiple work streams across development, documentation, and operations.
Responsibilities
Product Development
Develop new formulas, formula improvements, and product renovations at benchtop and pilot scale
Produce samples for internal evaluation, retailer presentations, and product testing
Design, run, and document shelf-life, stability, and product performance studies
Evaluate new and alternative ingredients through comparison samples, sensory analysis, and written findings
Trails & Scale-Up
Plan, support, and attend trial production at co-manufacturing facilities
Provide on-site technical support during scale-up and commercialization
Documentation & Compliance
Maintain bills of materials (BOMs), formulas, and batch documentation
Develop nutrition facts panels and ingredient statements for new and revised products
Write and maintain finished product specifications and internal ingredient specifications
Manage supplier and co-manufacturer documentation (specs, COAs, certifications, batch sheets)
Support certification programs (Organic, Non-GMO Project Verified, Kosher)
Lab Operations
Help maintain R&D lab operations including inventory, sanitation, and equipment care
Cross-Functional Support
Partner with Operations, Quality & Compliance, Procurement, and Marketing on R&D initiatives
Requirements
Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Food Chemistry, Chemistry, Biology, or Nutrition
2-4 years of experience in the food industry
Hands-on experience with benchtop and pilot-scale product development
Strong attention to detail and organization
Analytical mindset - comfortable with formula math, unit conversions, % solids, Brix
Proficiency with Microsoft Excel
Clear written and verbal communication skills
Ability to work on-site in a lab environment and remain on feet for extended periods
Preferred
Experience in frozen desserts, ice cream, or frozen novelty manufacturing
Experience with nutrition analysis software (Tech Wizard, Genesis R&D, or equivalent)
Familiarity with ERP systems, particularly Microsoft Dynamics Business Central
Experience supporting trials at contract manufacturers or co-packing operations
Familiarity with FDA food labeling requirements (21 CFR)
Department: Research & Development
Reports to: R&D Director
Location: Long Island City, NY (On-site 4 days/week)
Type: Full-Time
Travel: 10-20% (Co-manufacturing trials and production support)
