Research Engineer (Food Product Developer) - VT

SINGAPORE INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY; Serangoon Garden Circus; On-site; SGD 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading university in Singapore is seeking a motivated Food Product Developer to enhance elderly nutrition through innovative food products. The ideal candidate will possess a strong background in food science and product development, coupled with 3-5 years of experience in the field. In this collaborative role, you'll manage research projects and mentor junior team members while working on the DIGNIFIED programme. Candidates should have excellent analytical and communication skills and a passion for food innovation.

Qualifications

• 3-5 years of experience in food product development and research.
• Strong knowledge of food chemistry, microbiology, and sensory evaluation.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively.

Responsibilities

• Manage research projects with the Principal Investigator and the team.
• Conduct research and development of innovative food products.
• Mentor junior research engineers in industry projects.
• Develop prototypes and formulations for new food products.

Skills

Analytical skills

Problem-solving skills

Critical-thinking skills

Communication skills

Culinary skills

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Food Science, Food Technology, or a related field

Masters/Ph.D. in food science and food technology

Tools

Laboratory equipment

Data analysis software

Job description

As a University of Applied Learning, SIT works closely with industry in our research pursuits. Our research staff will have the opportunity to be equipped with applied research skills that are relevant to industry demands while working on research projects in SIT.

About the DIGNIFIED programme

The DIGNIFIED programme is dedicated to developing elderly-friendly, textured modified foods with desirable organoleptic and nutritional properties. Our mission is to enhance the quality of life for elderly individuals by creating innovative, nutritious, and visually appealing food products that cater to their specific dietary needs.

We are seeking a highly motivated, skilled and experienced Food Product Developer to join our research team under the DIGNIFIED programme. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in food science, product development, and research methodologies. This role involves working collaboratively with cross-functional teams to develop new food products, improve existing ones, and ensure they meet the programme’s mission.

Key responsibilities

• Participate in and manage the research project with Principal Investigator (PI), Co-PI and the research team members to ensure all project deliverables are met.
• Conduct research and development activities to create innovative food products that align with the DIGNIFIED programme's goals.
• Mentor and guide junior research engineers in industry projects
• Develop prototypes and formulations for new/existing food products, ensuring they meet nutritional, sensory, and safety standards.
• Plan and conduct product scale up trials and shelf-life studies
• Source and evaluate new ingredients and suppliers
• Stay updated with the latest advancements in food science and technology and apply this knowledge to the development process.
• Prepare detailed reports, presentations, and documentation of research findings and product development processes.
• Participate in team meetings, brainstorming sessions, and project planning activities.
• Carry out Risk Assessment, and ensure compliance with Work, Safety and Health Regulations.
• Coordinate procurement and liaison with vendors/suppliers.

Job Requirements

1. Bachelor’s degree in Food Science, Food Technology, or a related field. A Masters/Ph.D. in food science and food technology would be advantageous
2. At least 3-5 years of proven experience in food product development and research, preferably within a similar programme or industry.
3. Strong knowledge of food chemistry, microbiology, and sensory evaluation techniques.
4. Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and critical-thinking skills.
5. Strong understanding of ingredient functionality and food processing.
6. Proficiency in using laboratory equipment and software for data analysis.
7. Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a research environment.
8. Strong communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to present complex information clearly.
9. Passion for food product innovation and improving elderly nutrition.

Bonus:

Culinary skills and experience in product renovation and innovation.

Shortlisted candidates will attend 2 rounds of interviews - 1 virtual interview and 1 face-to-face panel presentation.