Junior Product Developer - FMCG

Placements24; Stellenbosch; Hybrid; ZAR 180,000 - 280,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Junior Product Developer to join its R&D team in Stellenbosch, Western Cape. The role blends hands-on formulation work with office-based collaboration, and includes the opportunity to contribute to new and existing FMCG products.

Under guidance from senior staff, you will assist in development, testing, and optimization while ensuring compliance with local regulations and a focus on innovation in the Western Cape FMCG market.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or National Diploma in Food Science or related discipline.
• Some experience in product development or R&D in FMCG.
• Strong knowledge of formulation techniques and analytical methods.
• Excellent laboratory skills and equipment experience.
• Experience with data analysis and reporting.
• Good communication and teamwork for a hybrid environment.
• Familiarity with South African food regulations is a plus.
• Residents near Stellenbosch to facilitate in-office duties.

Responsibilities

• Assist in the development and formulation of new FMCG products according to specifications and market trends.
• Conduct laboratory experiments, including product testing, sensory evaluation, and shelf-life studies.
• Support the scale-up process of new products from lab bench to pilot plant and commercial production.
• Gather and analyze data from product trials and experiments.
• Contribute to the improvement and cost optimization of existing product formulations.
• Research raw materials, ingredients, and new processing technologies.
• Prepare technical documentation, reports, and product specifications.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including Marketing, Quality Assurance, and Production.
• Ensure all development activities comply with food safety standards and regulatory requirements in Stellenbosch.
• Stay updated on industry trends and competitor product innovations within the FMCG landscape.

Skills

Food science

Analytical methods

Lab skills

Data analysis

Teamwork

Communication

Independent work

Education

Bachelor's degree / National Diploma in Food Science

Tools

Testing equipment

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a renowned innovator in the Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) sector, is seeking a bright and ambitious Junior Product Developer to join their Research and Development team in Stellenbosch, Western Cape . This role offers a fantastic opportunity to contribute to the creation and refinement of new and existing FMCG products. The Junior Product Developer will work under the guidance of senior R&D personnel, participating in formulation, testing, and product improvement processes. This position is a Hybrid role, requiring presence in the lab and office in Stellenbosch for collaborative work, with flexibility for remote tasks. It's an ideal position for a recent graduate or early-career professional passionate about food science and product innovation within the FMCG market of the Western Cape .

Key Responsibilities

• Assist in the development and formulation of new FMCG products according to specifications and market trends.
• Conduct laboratory experiments, including product testing, sensory evaluation, and shelf-life studies.
• Support the scale-up process of new products from lab bench to pilot plant and commercial production.
• Gather and analyze data from product trials and experiments.
• Contribute to the improvement and cost optimization of existing product formulations.
• Research raw materials, ingredients, and new processing technologies.
• Prepare technical documentation, reports, and product specifications.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including Marketing, Quality Assurance, and Production.
• Ensure all development activities comply with food safety standards and regulatory requirements in Stellenbosch .
• Stay updated on industry trends and competitor product innovations within the FMCG landscape.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree or National Diploma in Food Science, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a related discipline.
• Some experience in product development, R&D, or a similar technical role, preferably within the FMCG or food industry.
• Strong understanding of food science principles, formulation techniques, and analytical methods.
• Excellent laboratory skills and experience with relevant testing equipment.
• Proficiency in data analysis and report writing.
• Good communication and teamwork skills, essential for a Hybrid collaborative environment.
• A keen interest in innovation and product development.
• Ability to work independently and manage tasks effective l.
• Familiarity with South African food regulations is an advantage.
• Residing in or near Stellenbosch , Western Cape to faciliat e in-office duties.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive starting salary, alongside valuable opportunities for professional growth and skill development within their R&D department. This Hybrid role supports a healthy work-life balance by combining on-site collaboration with remote work flexibility. You will gain exposure to cutting-edge product development processes in a supportive and innovative environment. Join a leading FMCG company that invests in its people and contributes to the vibrant economy of the Western Cape . We are committed to fostering talent and providing a stimulating career path i