Job Description

Company Overview: Join an innovative startup revolutionizing oral pouch delivery systems. We're seeking a entrepreneurial Food Technologist to take ownership of flavor development, formulation strategy, and nicotine masking technologies across our cutting-edge product portfolio — including non-tobacco nicotine, caffeine, hydration, and nutraceutical delivery formats.

This is a director-level opportunity perfect for someone who thrives in a startup environment and wants significant room for professional growth while building something transformative from the ground up.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead flavor development initiatives — create compelling taste profiles while effectively masking nicotine and other active compounds
• Drive formulation strategy for multiple pouch product lines (nicotine, caffeine, supplements, wellness products)
• Oversee production optimization using our world-class manufacturing facility equipped with high-speed machinery capable of 1,200 pouches per minute
• Select and integrate appropriate actives, sweeteners, excipients, and advanced flavor masking systems
• Collaborate with material scientists on innovative pouch fabric technologies (PLA, coconut fiber, bamboo, nonwoven materials)
• Build cross-functional partnerships with manufacturing, quality, and regulatory compliance teams
• Establish robust documentation protocols for FDA, GRAS, and DSHEA compliance standards
• Optimize release profiles, moisture control, and overall sensory experience across product lines

What We're Looking For:

• B.S./M.S. in Food Science, Food Technology, Chemistry, or related field
• 5+ years in food/beverage R&D with emphasis on  flavor development and  nicotine/bitter compound masking
• Proven experience with oral delivery systems — dissolvables, lozenges, gums, or pouches
• Deep understanding of GRAS protocols, FDA supplement guidelines, and ingredient compliance
• Entrepreneurial mindset — you love building, problem-solving, and wearing multiple hats
• Startup experience preferred — comfortable with fast-paced, high-growth environments

Significant Bonus Points:

• Direct experience with nicotine pouch brands or tobacco alternatives
• Background in pharmaceutical or nutraceutical flavor masking
• Hands-on experience with high-speed packaging and pouching machinery

Compensation & Growth:

• Salary: $90,000 – $150,000 (based on experience)
• Equity package with substantial upside potential for early leadership hires
• Unlimited growth potential — build and eventually lead your own R&D team as we scale
• Access to state-of-the-art manufacturing technology and equipment
• Opportunity to pioneer next-generation delivery systems in an exploding CPG category

Why This Role: This isn't just another R&D position — you'll be architecting the flavor and formulation foundation for a rapidly growing startup with massive market potential. If you're passionate about innovation, love the energy of building something from scratch, and want to make your mark in the evolving wellness and alternative nicotine space, this is your opportunity.

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