Research and Development (R&D) and Sourcing Associate

Job Description

Job Description

About Richmond Wholesale Meats:

Richmond Wholesale Meats, a Pro Food Solutions company, is a trusted leader in protein distribution with over 60 years of experience serving foodservice operators, government agencies, and global partners. Based in Richmond, California, we specialize in high-quality meat products, custom processing, and dependable service. As part of the Pro Food Solutions family, we are committed to operational excellence, customer focus, and building the future of food through innovation and integrity.

Position Summary

The Research & Development (R&D) and Sourcing Associate supports the development and commercialization of innovative food products by combining recipe development expertise with ingredient sourcing and regulatory compliance. This role will be responsible for formulating and testing recipes, ensuring accuracy of nutrition facts panels and ingredient statements, and coordinating packaging requirements for retail products. In addition, the Specialist will identify and qualify suppliers, manage sourcing documentation, and collaborate with cross-functional teams to bring high-quality, cost-effective products to market that meet both regulatory standards and customer expectations.

Key Responsibilities

• Recipe Development: Assist in formulating and testing recipes for new products and line extensions, including sample preparation, sensory evaluation, and scale-up support.
• Compliance: Generate and verify nutrition facts panels, ingredient statements, and allergen declarations to ensure compliance with USDA/USDC/FDA/PHC regulations and company standards.
• Packaging Support: Collaborate with cross-functional teams and suppliers to ensure packaging designs meet regulatory labeling requirements, are functionally appropriate for retail and foodservice, and align with brand standards.
• Ingredient & Supplier Sourcing: Research, qualify, and maintain relationships with suppliers to secure high-quality, cost-effective ingredients and packaging materials.
• Product Development Projects: Support R&D initiatives from concept to commercialization, coordinating documentation, testing protocols, and timelines.
• Data & Documentation: Maintain accurate records for recipes, formulations, supplier certifications, product specifications, and regulatory documentation.
• Product Integrity: Conducts internal product audits to ensure all items meet specifications and comply with FSQA standards.
• Trend & Innovation Research: Stay current on food trends, nutritional guidelines, and packaging innovations to contribute to the product pipeline.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration:
• Partner with Operations, Quality Assurance, Marketing, and Procurement teams to ensure seamless product launches and supply chain readiness.
• Actively collaborate with departments to foster a positive, productive work environment and support the company’s mission.
• Adhere to all Richmond Wholesale policies and compliance regulations, ensuring operational excellence.

Minimum Qualifications

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Food Science, Nutrition, Culinary Science, Supply Chain, or related field.
• Experience: 3-5 years of experience in food product development and commercialization, sourcing, or related functions.
• Skills:
• Advanced Excel (pivot tables, formulas, data modeling)
• 2+ years of technical compliance experience (i.e. food safety, labeling regulations, and/or nutrition compliance)

Abilities and Competencies Essential to the Function of the Job

Food Production & Processes

• Intimate understanding of food chemistry and manufacturing processes to allow innovative and resourceful collaboration with co-manufacturer partners during the R&D process.

Project Management

• Ability to manage multiple projects, deadlines and stakeholders.
• Meticulous attention to detail.

Communication & Comprehension

• Communicates clearly and effectively, both verbally and in writing, cross-functionally.
• Demonstrates professional writing skills and the ability to correspond articulately.
• Exhibits strong public speaking skills to represent Richmond Wholesale to various stakeholders.

Problem Solving

• Analyzes data and situations to solve routine and complex problems.
• Applies sound judgment and decision-making skills to resolve issues.
• Maintains professionalism and composure under pressure.

Physical & Sensory Abilities

• Able to travel locally and outside the local area as needed.
• Frequently required to sit, stand, and walk, with occasional lifting and bending.
• Capable of hearing and speaking effectively for communication purposes.

Working Conditions

The work environment is a climate-controlled office setting, well-lit with a moderate noise level.

Equal Employment Opportunity

Richmond Wholesale Meats, a Pro Food Solutions company, provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, creed, ancestry, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, pregnancy, childbirth or related medical condition, marital status, religion, age, disability, gender identity or expression, genetic information, or service in the military or any other class protected by local, state or federal law