Product Development Scientist

Santa Monica, CA / Full Time / Hybrid

We are seeking an experienced and passionate Product Development Scientist to join our Research and Development team. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in working with vitamins, minerals, and dietary supplements. Working closely with the company founder, this role will lead the development of new products from concept to launch, focusing on vitamins, minerals, and supplements. This includes formulation, stability testing, sensory evaluation, sourcing bioavailable specialty ingredients and working alongside with doctors.

This role reports to the Director of Sourcing and Product Development and requires in-office collaboration 2 days per week in Santa Monica, CA.

Key Responsibilities

• Product Development: Develop new products, improve existing formulations, and ensuring the highest standards of quality and efficacy. Ensure all ingredients and formulations adhere to strict brand guidelines. Maintain a knowledge of trends in ingredients, technologies, and delivery systems.
• Research: Conduct in-depth research on ingredients, trends, and emerging technologies in the food science and supplement industry. Apply findings to develop innovative and effective products.
• Collaboration: Work closely with cross-functional teams to ensure successful product development and launch. Lead and develop the communication of product benefits and marketing claims of existing and new products to team members.
• Documentation: Maintain accurate records of formulations, experiments, and product specifications. Prepare technical reports and presentations as needed. This includes lab testing, internal documentation, claims substantiation, responsible sourcing, and relevant certifications.
• Regulatory Compliance: Stay updated on regulatory changes and ensure all products comply with relevant food safety and supplement regulations. Own the entire process of product efficacy, safety and clinical testing and claims.
• Ingredient Sourcing: Identify and evaluate potential suppliers for high-quality ingredients. Conduct supplier audits and manage ingredient specifications. Develop strong relationship with suppliers to bring opportunities for improvements in quality, sustainability, and pricing.
• Quality Assurance: Ensure all products meet regulatory requirements and internal quality standards. Develop and implement quality control protocols and procedures. Assist on corrective/preventative actions when quality or regulatory issues arise.

Core Skills and Qualifications

• Higher education in Food Science, Clinical Nutrition, Naturopathy, Herbalism, Integrative Health, Biochemistry or related field.
• Minimum of 4 years of experience in food science, specifically working with vitamins, minerals, and dietary supplements.
• Proficiency in formulation, analytical techniques, and sensory evaluation.
• Strong understanding of nutritional science, ingredient interactions, and product stability. Familiarity with regulatory requirements for dietary supplements.
• Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills. Ability to interpret scientific data and translate findings into practical applications.
• Proficiency with Excel and project management software such as Asana
• Strong written and verbal communication skills. Ability to effectively communicate complex scientific concepts to non-technical stakeholders.
• Understanding of quality and safety certifications and corresponding formulation requirements.
• Knowledge of PD stage gates, supply chain processes, and regulatory requirements.
• Passionate about natural wellness and sustainability.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in the natural products industry.
• Knowledge of adaptogens and herbal supplements.
• Experience with sustainable and ethical sourcing practices.

About Moon Juice

Moon Juice makes next level supplements you can trust and feel. We go to great lengths to ensure the best Source, Dose, Form™ with 100% traceable, potently dosed, and bioavailable ingredients. Bringing the plants, science, and wisdom since 2011.

Please note before applying: Interviewing with Moon Juice may include video and phone interviews, written projects, and/or on-site interviews. We may be unable to follow-up with every applicant. If you are an individual with a disability and need an accommodation in order to apply for a posted job, please contact us at careers@moonjuice.com. Applicants and employees are protected from discrimination under federal law. Moon Juice is an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran or disability status.