Technical Advancement Manager - #1414536

ABOUT POPPI

Soda's back. Like, actually back. The twist? It's better for you this time (and no lie, it tastes better, too)! Join the team that's reclaiming soda one mouthwatering drop at a time. Refreshing and juicy without unnecessary sugar, it's time to love soda again!

OUR VALUES

• We keep it real: We keep our egos in check and our feedback honest so we can always stay real. You know, like our ingredients.
• We are creators: We're disruptors who see and do things differently, which is why we changed the soda game forever.
• We do it better, together: We're better when we do together. We have one shot to become the #1 soda, so we need to make it count (while taking care of each other along the way).
  
  

LOCATION

This is an on-site role based in Austin, Texas.

THE ROLE

poppi is seeking a highly motivated and experienced scientist to join our dynamic R&D team at our Center of Excellence in Austin, Texas. As the Technical Advancement Manager, you will play a pivotal role in driving innovation and technical excellence across our beverage portfolio. This role calls for deep technical expertise in food and beverage systems, a passion for innovation, and the ability to translate scientific insight into consumer-driven product solutions.

You will lead advanced technical projects, conduct ingredient and formulation research, and identify emerging technologies to develop best-in-class products. Collaborating cross-functionally with teams across R&D, Operations, and Marketing, you'll enhance product quality, streamline processes, and help future-proof our portfolio through science and creativity.

WHAT YOU WILL DO

• Serve as the subject matter expert (SME) on all technical projects.
• Scout new and existing technologies, including functional ingredients, sweetener alternatives, flavor systems, and packaging solutions; and develop and maintain a short-term and long-term Tech Radar for flavor, technology, and packaging to help the brand keep a competitive edge.
• Research and establish a scientific understanding of ingredients (such as sweeteners, acids, flavors, and fiber) and their interactions with the beverage system.
• Identify ways to continuously improve formulations, processes, ingredients, packaging, and technology through bench-top and pilot plant testing and spearhead the renovation process.
• Oversee and collaborate with a network of 3rd party flavor houses and a University R&D partner on flavor technology, ingredient research, packaging testing, sensory studies, shelf-life testing, and market insights.
• Develop and manage the design of experiments, timelines, weekly and quarterly reports, and all tangible and intangible deliverables.
• Protect existing and generate new intellectual property for poppi in the form of patents and trade secrets. Publish and present white papers, research articles, posters, etc., on internal and external platforms.
• Serve as a liaison between R&D, Quality, and the Operations department, and ensure accuracy of all information shared between the different departments, including batch sheets, nutrition facts panels, claims, processing requirements, etc.
• Create and document finished goods formulas for costing and production and identify opportunities for cost optimization.
• Manage competitive intelligence, conduct SWOT analysis, and identify opportunities and threats in the marketplace.
• Prepare reports and keep stakeholders informed about all projects on a weekly basis.
• Support R&D team on hands-on development of new beverage applications (preferably: soft drinks, enhanced waters, energy drinks) and improvement of existing products.
• Manage laboratory, equipment, and SOPs, and provide support in maintaining the Center of Excellence.
  
  

WHAT YOU BRING

• Demonstrated success in fast-paced, high-growth environments where agility, quick decision-making, and shifting priorities are the norm.
• Proven track record in developing and scaling innovative food and beverage applications, including soft drinks, energy drinks, enhanced waters, and teas.
• Strong scientific foundation with a history of impactful research contributions—such as patents, white papers, peer-reviewed publications, and industry presentations.
• Deep understanding of key beverage ingredients (e.g., sweeteners, acids, flavors, fiber) and their functional interactions within complex systems. Experience working with flavor houses is a plus, but not required.
• Solid knowledge of beverage processing technologies and their implications, including pasteurization, aseptic processing, and cold fill methods.
• Advanced analytical and problem-solving skills with a proven ability to deliver timely, high-quality results in a dynamic environment.
• Excellent cross-functional collaborator, skilled at building strong relationships with internal teams and external partners.
• Highly organized and detail-oriented, with a focus on accuracy, efficiency, and meeting deadlines.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to clearly convey technical information to diverse audiences.
  
  

YOUR BACKGROUND

• Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Biology, or related field preferred; equivalent experience accepted.
• Master's degree preferred.
• 4+ years of experience in food or beverage industry, preferably in beverage application development.
• Technology proficient with the Microsoft Office, NetSuite, PowerBI, and Formulation Management Software.
  
  

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

• Ability to travel up to 20% by plane and car to domestic or international sites.
• Valid driver's license
• Some lifting and the movement of moderate loads require 50-pound lifting requirement.
• Ability to accommodate a flexible schedule, occasionally working evenings and weekends as needed for special assignments.
  
  

The above statements cover what are generally believed to be principal and essential functions of the job. Specific circumstances may allow or require some incumbents assigned to the job to perform a different combination of duties. 

COMPENSATION

Our comprehensive compensation package plays a big part in how we recognize you for the impact you have on our path to achieving our mission. For this role, the estimated base salary range is between $110,000-$120,000. The actual base salary will vary based on various factors, including market and individual qualifications objectively assessed during the interview process. The listed range above is a guideline, and the base salary range for this role may be modified.

BENEFITS

poppi offers a comprehensive benefits package for full-time employees, including, but not limited to:

• Paid Time Off (3 weeks)
• 10 Paid Company Holidays
• Medical, Dental, and Vision Benefits
• Flexible Spending Account Plan
• 401(k) Program
• Paid Parental Leave
• Life Insurance
• Technology Allowance
• Employee Assistance Program
• Quarterly poppi Product Benefit
  
  

At poppi, we are committed to building a diverse and inclusive company. We seek to create a culture where everyone can belong. We welcome people of different backgrounds, experiences, abilities, and perspectives. 

poppi is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We do not make hiring or employment decisions on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, disability status or genetic information, in compliance with applicable federal, state and local law.

Poppi Privacy Policy