specialist, R&D ( TLA, Internal Only )(J98445)

Main Purpose and Job Scope
This position serves to improve Starbucks experience based on R&D function. This role contributes to Starbucks success by leading or initiating some medium-complexity product conceptualization projects and also completing assigned projects related to the development of beverage products that support the successful execution of company initiatives. Models and acts in accordance with Starbucks guiding principles.

Key Accountabilities and required skills
Responsibilities and essential job functions include but are not limited to the following:

◆Ideate – form new product concepts
1) Detailed job specifications:
Develop concepts based on market trend, being open-minded to future possibilities.
Use multiple channels to acquire on-trend information, turn words and data into visual.
Brainstorming and discussion, add points of view from R&D perspective to form insights.
Skills to support:
Curiosity on coffee & beverage, food and lifestyle market
Multi-languages (fluent Chinese and basic English)
Able to integrate data and information on a basic level
Creative and marketing interest is a plus.
MS office suite



◆Create – integrate sources for prototype
1) Detailed job specifications:
Combine maker skills for rapidly prototype product, which is based on concept and feasibility.
Describe flavors more precisely when building prototype, from partner, vendor and customer POV.
Work on possible methods to styling products to be more appealing to customers, and more practical to partners.
Find more customization possibilities.
Skills to support:
2+ years’ barista experience with bartender skills;
Able to use wide range of coffee equipment;
Internal & external coffee competition experience;

◆Evaluate – support concept ideas and current business
Detailed job specifications:
Repeatedly work on assessment of concept, prototype and products.
Ensure coffee quality mainly on espresso, work cross-functional for better outcomes.
Skills to support:
Related education background
Minimum Starbucks coffee Master.
Q-grader / culinary certification is a plus

◆Communicate – deliver thoughts as per brand guideline
Detailed job specifications:
Understands and can articulate the Starbucks brand

Skills to support:
In depth understanding of Starbucks brand and its applications.
In-store retail knowledge a plus.

◆Tracking – ensuring info accuracy
Detailed job specifications:
Archives the R&D specs sheets into online system
Ensuring accuracy and timeliness

Skills to support:
Detail orientation with admin
Systematic filing and retrieval system
MS word excel


◆Maintaining- lab organization
Detailed job specifications:
High-functioning lab that looks and feel professionally-up kept

Skills to support:
In-store retail knowledge a plus.

Requirements
◆Basic qualifications for this role are:
◆2+ years of experience in making innovative beverage/foods
◆2+ years of experience in Store operation,
◆SS level at least

Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
◆Ability to work with cross-functional teams
◆Basic skills in Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Access and Project
◆Knowledge and application of food principles
◆Motivated
◆Curious
◆Tenacious
◆Ability to work with cross-functional teams
◆Adaptable to frequently evolving priorities
◆Experience in the food and beverage or related industry is a plus