Product Development Scientist - FMCG Innovation

Placements24; Kimberley; Hybrid; CAD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Fully remote work arrangement

Professional development budget

Stock options

Home office support

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Product Development Scientist to join its remote R&D team. You will lead the conception, development and optimization of FMCG products, focusing on formulation, sensory evaluation and shelf-life stability. Work across marketing, manufacturing and QA to drive ideation to commercialization.

The role requires a strong scientific background, creativity, problem solving and a track record in bringing new products to market while thriving in a fully remote setting.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's in Food Science, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or related field.
• PhD is an advantage.
• Minimum 5 years in product development, R&D or formulation science in FMCG.
• Strong understanding of food chemistry and processing tech.
• Proficiency with laboratory techniques and analytical instruments.

Responsibilities

• Lead R&D, development and formulation from concept to launch.
• Conduct experiments to optimize formulations and processes.
• Perform sensory evaluations and shelf-life testing.
• Collaborate with marketing, manufacturing and QA.
• Scale up lab processes to pilot and commercial productions.
• Document all research procedures and results.

Skills

R&D focus

Analytical skills

Statistical analysis

Lab techniques

Communication skills

Education

Bachelor's in Food Science

Master's in Chemistry

PhD (advantage)

Tools

Analytical instrumentation

Statistical software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading innovator in the Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) sector, is seeking a talented and passionate Product Development Scientist to join their pioneering research and development team. This position is designed as a fully remote role, offering flexibility and the opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking product innovation from anywhere. The successful candidate will be responsible for the conception, development, and optimization of new and existing FMCG products, focusing on areas such as formulation, sensory evaluation, and shelf-life stability. You will work collaboratively with cross-functional teams, including marketing, manufacturing, and quality assurance, to bring innovative products from ideation to commercialization. This role requires a strong scientific background, creativity, excellent problem-solving skills, and a deep understanding of product development processes within the FMCG industry. We are looking for a highly motivated individual who can thrive in a remote setting and drive scientific excellence in product innovation.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the research, development, and formulation of new FMCG products from concept to launch, ensuring alignment with market needs and business objectives.
• Conduct experiments and laboratory work to optimize product formulations, ingredients, and manufacturing processes.
• Perform sensory evaluations and shelf-life testing to ensure product quality, stability, and consumer acceptance.
• Analyze raw materials and finished products to ensure they meet specified quality standards and regulatory requirements.
• Collaborate closely with marketing teams to translate consumer insights and market trends into product concepts and features.
• Work with the manufacturing and operations teams to scale up laboratory processes to pilot and commercial production.
• Troubleshoot and resolve technical challenges encountered during product development and production.
• Stay abreast of scientific advancements, industry trends, and new technologies relevant to FMCG product development.
• Document all research, experimental procedures, and results in a clear and comprehensive manner.
• Contribute to the intellectual property portfolio through patent applications and new technology development.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Food Science, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a related scientific discipline. A PhD is an advantage.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in product development, R&D, or formulation science within the FMCG industry.
• Proven experience in developing and launching successful new products.
• Strong understanding of food chemistry, ingredient functionality, processing technologies, and quality control principles.
• Proficiency in laboratory techniques, analytical instrumentation, and statistical analysis.
• Excellent problem-solving, critical thinking, and project management skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present complex scientific information clearly.
• Ability to work independently, manage multiple projects, and collaborate effectively in a fully remote environment.
• Familiarity with regulatory requirements and food safety standards (e.g., HACCP, GMP) is essential.
• Creative mindset and a passion for innovation in the FMCG space.

Benefits

• Competitive salary package commensurate with qualifications and experience.
• Fully remote work arrangement providing significant flexibility.
• Opportunity to work on innovative product development for leading FMCG brands.
• Generous professional development budget for training, conferences, and certifications.
• Contribution towards home office setup and internet costs.
• Performance-based bonuses and potential for stock options.
• Collaborative and intellectually stimulating remote work environment.
• Access to state-of-the-art virtual R&D resources.
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement benefits.