Senior Food Technologist

Company Description - SHIRES BAKERY is a food production company based in Hamilton, Ontario, specializing in baked goods (mainly cookies) for a variety of customers. The organization focuses on consistent product quality, reliable delivery, and meeting the evolving tastes of the market. Team members work in a collaborative environment that values food safety, innovation, and operational efficiency. The company offers opportunities to contribute to new product development and continuous improvement in bakery processes. SHIRES BAKERY is growing and seeks experienced professionals who are passionate about food science and product excellence.

Role Description The Senior Food Technologist is a contractual remote/on-site role based in Hamilton, ON. This role is responsible for leading product development from concept through commercialization, including formulation, testing, and scale-up of new and improved baked products. Day-to-day tasks include planning and conducting R&D trials, performing sensory evaluations, and ensuring product quality and consistency in collaboration with production and quality teams. The Senior Food Technologist will design and execute laboratory experiments, document results, and maintain accurate technical records, while supporting compliance with food safety and regulatory standards. The role also includes troubleshooting production issues, optimizing recipes and processes for cost and performance, and mentoring junior technologists and technicians.

Qualifications

• Candidates should possess strong Food Technology knowledge, including formulation, processing, and understanding of bakery ingredients and functionality.
• Candidates should possess Laboratory Skills and Research and Development (R&D) experience, including experimental design, data analysis, and technical documentation.
• Candidates should possess Sensory Evaluation skills, including developing and executing tasting panels and interpreting sensory data to guide product improvements.
• Candidates should possess Quality Control expertise, including familiarity with food safety standards, HACCP principles, and in-line and finished product checks.
• Relevant qualifications such as a degree in Food Science, Food Technology, Chemistry, or a related field; advanced degrees or specialized bakery training are an asset.
• Experience in commercial bakery or food manufacturing environments, with a track record of successful product launches and process optimization.
• Strong communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to work cross-functionally with production, quality, operations, and commercial teams.
• Proficiency in using laboratory and production equipment, basic statistical tools for data analysis, and documentation systems for technical reports.
• Ability to work on-site in Hamilton, ON, manage multiple projects simultaneously, and adapt to a fast-paced manufacturing environment.