Product Development Scientist

We make pet food taste great! For over 30 years, AFB International has been providing pet food solutions that enrich the lives of pets and their people.  Our palatants are specially designed to make pet foods, treats and supplements taste better, ensuring pets receive the vital nutrients they need. We know wagging tails, licking whiskers and empty bowls equal happy pets and happy pet parents. Join AFB and you'll be a part of a team of highly skilled professionals that provide the greatest contribution to our success as an organization. Our team members are diverse, creative, passionate experts who are genuinely dedicated to our mission, our customers, and the pets we serve worldwide. ​

Job Description

Product Development Scientist

AFB International is a global leader in science and technology for pet food palatability. We develop and manufacture a full portfolio of liquid and dry palatability enhancers that help create better-tasting dog and cat foods, treats, and supplements.

As a trusted partner to pet food manufacturers worldwide, we combine deep scientific expertise with innovation to meet the evolving needs of pets and their owners. AFB International is part of Ensign-Bickford Industries, a privately owned, high-technology organization with a global footprint spanning North America, Europe, Latin America, Mexico, Australia, and China.

Join our global Science & Technology team within Research & Development, where long-term thinking meets cutting-edge innovation. As a Product Development Scientist, you will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of pet food palatability by developing next-generation products from concept through commercialization.

This role reports to the North American Head of Product and Process Sciences and offers the opportunity to directly influence product innovation, technology scale-up, and business growth.

Responsibilities include:

• Lead the end-to-end development of innovative palatant products—from concept to market launch
• Design and execute experiments across bench, pilot, and production scales
• Apply food science and processing expertise, especially in thermal processing, to create high-quality products
• Drive product pipelines for both liquid and dry palatants
• Collaborate cross-functionally with product, process, and manufacturing teams
• Provide technical support during production scale-up and ongoing operations
• Analyze experimental data and translate findings into actionable business insights
• Document research and maintain accurate technical records
• Serve as a subject matter expert, supporting supply chain and troubleshooting challenges
• Communicate key findings through reports and presentations to stakeholders

What You Bring

Education & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree (minimum) in Food Science, Chemistry, Food Processing, or related field + 5+ years of experience
• OR Master’s degree + 3+ years of relevant R&D experience
• OR PhD + at least 1 year of industry experience in product development
• Experience in food or pet food R&D and scale-up required

Technical Expertise

• Strong foundation in food science, formulation, and processing principles
• Proven experience in product development from concept to commercialization
• Hands-on experience in formulation, pilot trials, and scale-up
• Knowledge of thermal processing techniques preferred
• Familiarity with manufacturing practices and quality standards

What Sets You Apart

• A data-driven mindset with strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Ability to balance technical depth with business impact
• Strong collaboration and communication skills across diverse teams
• Proven ability to manage multiple projects in a fast-paced environment
• A proactive, ownership-driven approach with a passion for innovation
• Comfort navigating ambiguity and evolving priorities

Why Join Us?

• Work on cutting-edge science in a growing global industry
• Be part of a collaborative, innovation-driven R&D culture
• Make a real impact on products enjoyed by pets worldwide
• Opportunities for professional growth within a global organization

If you're passionate about food science, innovation, and bringing new products to life, this is your chance to make a meaningful impact in a dynamic and purpose-driven environment.

AFB International is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE). Qualified applicants are considered for employment without regard to race, religion, color, sex, age, disability, sexual orientation, genetic information, national origin, or veteran status.