About PepsiCo

PepsiCo is a global leader in the food and beverage industry, crafting iconic brands enjoyed by over 1 billion people daily. From Pepsi and Lay's to Gatorade and Quaker, PepsiCo's portfolio drives innovation and positive change. With a commitment to sustainability, PepsiCo sets ambitious goals to reduce environmental impact while fostering an inclusive culture where every employee can thrive. In Canada, PepsiCo operates cutting-edge facilities, including in Cambridge, Ontario, where R&D teams pioneer the next generation of products. Joining PepsiCo means contributing to a legacy of excellence and influencing global markets.

Role Overview

The R&D Product Development Associate Scientist position at PepsiCo in Cambridge, Ontario, is a 24-month contract role ideal for passionate food scientists. You'll lead the design, development, and launch of innovative food and beverage products, managing the full lifecycle from concept to commercialization. This role demands technical expertise in food science, ingredient functionality, and processing technologies, combined with strong collaboration skills. With a salary range of $63,300 - $103,200 CAD per year, this position offers competitive pay in a dynamic environment focused on quality, safety, and regulatory compliance.

Key Focus Areas

Expect to drive accelerated product development, generate new ideas, optimize prototypes, and ensure seamless scale-up to manufacturing. This is your chance to innovate consumer-centric products at a world-class company.

Key Responsibilities

In this role, you'll take ownership of critical tasks to bring products to market:

• Develop superior food products using food chemistry, ingredient functionality, and experimental design principles.
• Lead accelerated product development lifecycles, including idea generation, prototyping, optimization, production startup, and national launches.
• Follow the technical stage-gate innovation process for robust product design and specifications with cross-functional alignment.
• Design and execute experiments, analyze and interpret data to provide sound technical recommendations on product and process needs.
• Collaborate with R&D partners in Marketing, Quality Assurance, Food Safety, Packaging, Life Sciences, Regulatory, and Sensory & Consumer Insights for safe, legal, consumer-centric designs.
• Ensure scaled-up formulas meet specifications at plants, partnering with Engineering and Supply Chain for new equipment testing and scale-up.

Qualifications & Requirements

To succeed, candidates should possess:

• A BS, MS, or PhD in Food Science & Technology or a related scientific field.
• Proven product development experience in the foods or beverages industry.
• Strong skills in product development, with deep knowledge of food or beverage ingredient functionality and processing technologies.
• An innovative, creative mindset with a positive, results-driven 'can-do' attitude.
• Collaborative team player with excellent interpersonal skills to influence across functions and levels.
• Ability to prioritize and manage complex or multiple projects with flexibility and adaptability.
• Strong oral and written communication skills for updates to technical and business teams.
• Interest and ability to work in laboratory, pilot plant, and manufacturing environments.

Preferred Experience

Prior exposure to cross-functional projects and stage-gate processes is highly valued.

Benefits & Perks

PepsiCo offers an attractive package for this contract role:

• Competitive salary of $63,300 - $103,200 CAD per year.
• Comprehensive benefits designed to fit your unique needs.
• A dynamic, inclusive culture encouraging you to bring your whole self to work.
• Opportunities to contribute to sustainability goals impacting people and the planet.
• Supportive team environment fostering professional growth and development.

Career Growth

Even as a 24-month contract, this role provides invaluable experience at PepsiCo. Gain exposure to global innovation processes, build cross-functional networks, and develop skills in high-impact R&D. Many contractors transition to permanent roles, leveraging PepsiCo's commitment to internal growth. Access training, mentorship, and projects that accelerate your career in food science.

Why Join Us

At PepsiCo, you're part of a global team of innovators making, moving, and selling products worldwide. Our inclusive culture welcomes everyone to dare to be themselves, learn, and grow. Influence people and the planet while advancing in a supportive environment. In Cambridge, Ontario, enjoy a vibrant location with modern facilities. PepsiCo uses AI in hiring to ensure fair processes. Dare for Better with us.

Role FAQs

Is this a full-time role?

Yes, it's a full-time 24-month contract position.

What salary can I expect?

The disclosed range is $63,300 - $103,200 CAD annually, with potential for negotiation based on experience.

Do I need a degree in Food Science?

Yes, BS/MS/PhD in Food Science & Technology or related field is required.

Will I work in a lab?

Yes, across lab, pilot plant, and manufacturing environments.

How does PepsiCo support diversity?

Our culture promotes inclusivity, allowing you to bring your whole self to work.