Product Development Scientist - FMCG

Placements24; Windsor Park (TN); Hybrid; USD 55,000 - 82,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Product Development Scientist to drive FMCG product development from concept to market launch. You will conduct lab experiments, pilot plant trials, and sensory evaluations, while researching new ingredients and processing methods.

This hybrid role involves collaboration with marketing, R&D, and manufacturing to ensure compliant, high-quality products. The position requires a strong background in food science or chemistry, 4–6 years of FMCG experience, and excellent

Qualifications

• Master's or PhD in Food Science, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or related field.
• 4-6 years of experience in product development, formulation, and R&D within FMCG (food/beverages).
• Proven track record of developing and launching consumer products.
• Strong understanding of food chemistry, microbiology, sensory science, and processing technologies.
• Experience with laboratory equipment, pilot plant operations, and scale-up processes.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills in a hybrid team environment.
• Proficiency in relevant scientific software and MS Office Suite.

Responsibilities

• Lead the development and formulation of new FMCG products from concept to market launch.
• Conduct laboratory experiments, pilot plant trials, and sensory evaluations to optimize prototypes.
• Research and identify new ingredients, technologies, and processing methods to enhance quality and innovation.
• Ensure all product development activities comply with regulatory requirements, safety standards, and QA protocols.
• Collaborate with marketing, regulatory affairs, quality control, and manufacturing for successful commercialization.
• Troubleshoot and resolve technical challenges during development and scale-up.
• Prepare detailed technical reports, documentation, and presentations on projects.
• Stay abreast of industry trends, scientific advancements, and competitor innovations.

Skills

Analytical skills

Sensory evaluation

Problem solving

Team collaboration

Education

Master's or PhD in Food Science/Chemistry/Chemical Engineering

Tools

Laboratory equipment

Pilot plant operations

Scale-up processes

Job description

About the Role Our client, a leading innovator in the Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) sector, is seeking a highly skilled and creative Product Development Scientist to join their research and development team. This role will be central to the ideation, formulation, and testing of new and improved consumer products, ensuring they meet market demands and quality standards. You will be involved in the entire product lifecycle, from concept to commercialization, working collaboratively with marketing, R&D, and manufacturing departments. The ideal candidate will possess a strong scientific background in food science, chemistry, or a related field, coupled with practical experience in product formulation and sensory evaluation. This hybrid role offers a blend of essential laboratory work and remote collaboration, providing a dynamic environment to drive innovation within the FMCG space. We are looking for a passionate scientist eager to contribute to the development of exciting new products for the East London, Eastern Cape, ZA market and beyond.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the development and formulation of new FMCG products from concept to market launch.
• Conduct laboratory experiments, pilot plant trials, and sensory evaluations to optimize product prototypes.
• Research and identify new ingredients, technologies, and processing methods to enhance product quality and innovation.
• Ensure all product development activities comply with regulatory requirements, safety standards, and quality assurance protocols.
• Collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams, including marketing, regulatory affairs, quality control, and manufacturing, to ensure successful product commercialization.
• Troubleshoot and resolve technical challenges encountered during product development and scale-up.
• Prepare detailed technical reports, documentation, and presentations on product development projects.
• Stay abreast of industry trends, scientific advancements, and competitor product innovations in the FMCG sector.
• Contribute to the continuous improvement of existing products based on consumer feedback and market analysis.

Requirements

• Master's or Ph.D. degree in Food Science, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a related scientific discipline.
• Minimum of 4-6 years of experience in product development, formulation, and R&D within the FMCG industry, specifically in food or beverages.
• Proven track record of successfully developing and launching new consumer products.
• Strong understanding of food chemistry, microbiology, sensory science, and processing technologies.
• Experience with laboratory equipment, pilot plant operations, and scale-up processes.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively in a hybrid team environment.
• Proficiency in relevant scientific software and MS Office Suite.
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and meet deadlines.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary package, commensurate with qualifications and experience, along with a comprehensive benefits program. This hybrid role provides flexibility, requiring some in-person presence in East London, Eastern Cape, ZA for lab work, with remote flexibility for reporting and analysis. Opportunities for professional growth, continuous learning, and career advancement within a leading R&D team are available. The company promotes a culture of innovation and scientific excellence. Performance-based bonuses are also offered.