Research And Development Manager

Turano Baking Company is a family owned and operated specialty baking company that produces a complete variety of European and commercial breads and rolls delivered daily to customers throughout the United States. Turano continues to grow rapidly through a commitment to innovation and continuous improvement, making Turano one of the most dynamic bakers in the national foodservice and retail markets. Our dedication to tradition, quality, and reliability continue as the next generation of the Turano family eagerly contributes to the company and our family of employees' success.

Job Overview

We are seeking a Manager of Research & Development to lead recipe, ingredient, and product development for a commercial baking company.

This role is deeply embedded in manufacturing and works closely with Operations, Quality, Sales, and Customers to support product ideation, duplication, commercialization, and continuous improvement across our facilities. The ideal candidate brings strong baking science expertise, a passion for product development, and the ability to translate concepts into scalable, food-safe production.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the development and commercialization of new bakery products across the company
• Conduct research and development related to:
• Ingredients
• Formulations
• Processes
• Finished baked goods
• Support national and local sales initiatives with product development expertise
• Prepare and evaluate prototypes using pilot lab and manufacturing environments
• Select, evaluate, and approve raw materials from qualified suppliers
• Design experiments, evaluate results, and recommend improvements
• Partner cross-functionally with Operations, QA, Engineering, Purchasing, Sales, and Marketing
• Maintain accurate formulas, specifications, and R&D documentation
• Work with external labs, ingredient suppliers, and vendors to provide technical support

Qualifications

• Commercial baking or food manufacturing R&D experience (required)
• Strong knowledge of baking ingredients, formulations, and processes
• Experience bringing products from concept to commercialization
• Comfortable working in a manufacturing environment, not just a lab
• Strong documentation, organization, and cross-functional communication skills
• Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities

Education

• High School Diploma or equivalent required
• Continuing education in baking, ingredients, labeling, or food science strongly encouraged

Physical & Work Environment

• Manufacturing and pilot lab environment
• Ability to lift up to 30 lbs
• Must comply with PPE, safety, and GMP requirements

Why Join Us

• Hands-on R&D leadership role with real influence on products and operations
• Stable, established commercial bakery environment
• Opportunity to work closely with operations and customers
• Strong focus on food quality, safety, and innovation

Important Note

This position requires experience in commercial baking or food manufacturing R&D. Candidates without relevant industry experience may not be considered.

Pay: From $120,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Employee discount
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Application Question(s):

• How many years of experience do you have in commercial baking or food manufacturing R&D?
• Have you led product development from concept through commercialization in a manufacturing environment?
• Are you comfortable working directly in a manufacturing and pilot lab setting?
• How many years of Artisan Baking experience do you have?

Work Location: In person

Food and Beverage Manufacturing

Food Technologist, Food Scientist, Product Development Scientist,