Junior Product Development Technologist

AVI Limited; Cape Town; On-site; ZAR 300,000 - 400,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading seafood company is seeking a Junior Product Development Technologist in Cape Town. This role focuses on research and testing new products in line with safety and quality standards. Ideal candidates will have 2+ years in food development and relevant qualifications, contributing to innovative projects that support local communities and sustainability.

Qualifications

• Minimum 2 years’ experience in a food development environment.
• Matric / Grade 12.
• Completed National Higher Diploma in Food Technology or BSC Food Service Degree.

Responsibilities

• Assist in developing a robust innovation pipeline.
• Create products aligned to business strategy.
• Implement all new product development into factories.

Skills

Food development experience

Product development knowledge

Quality management

Education

National Higher Diploma in Food Technology

BSC Food Service Degree

Job description

At I&J, part of AVI, we combine close to 115 years of excellence with a forward-thinking approach to the fishing industry. As a leader in premium seafood, including Cape Hake and farmed Cape Abalone, we are committed to sustainability, innovation, and empowering local communities. Our latest innovation, Air-Fri’kn Amazing, brings bold flavours and crispy perfection to your air fryer, showcasing our passion for quality and customer-centric excellence.

Why Join I&J?

• Industry Leader: Work with a renowned brand known for premium Cape Hake and farmed Abalone.
• Sustainability Focused: Contribute to responsible fishing practices with MSC accreditation.
• Community Impact: Be part of a company that empowers and invests in local communities.
  
  

An exciting opportunity exists for a JUNIOR PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT TECHNOLOGIST at I&J, Head Office to be based in Woodstock, Cape Town. The purpose of this position is to assist the Product Development Technologists with research, development, and testing of new products and processes, ensuring they meet quality, safety, and regulatory standards.

Reporting Structure

• Reports to: Senior Research and Development Manager
  
  

Key Areas Of Impact

• Assist in developing a robust innovation pipeline.
• Assist Product Development Technologists to create products aligned to business strategy that will fuel growth and earnings of the company.
• Assist Product Development Technologists to create products aligned to export customers New Product Development (NPD) briefs.
• Assist with implementing cost and efficiency opportunities in products consistent with quality principles.
• Assist with implementation of all new product development into factories - Factory Trials, Pre-Productions and 1st Productions.
• Collate data from the different stages of development and generate trial plans and trial results.
• Organise retention samples from different stages of development.
• Organise samples to be sent for testing.
• Product Manual:
  
  

Responsible for collating data for the process manufacturing specifications to be generated.

Ad hoc audit checks to ensure products made as per the Product Manual demands.

• Organise tastings of samples at different stages of development.
  
  

Quality Management

• Adhering to Research and Development (R&D) Quality Manual and ensuring it's compliant to the latest versions of International Food Standard (IFS) and British Retail Consortium (BRC) requirements.
  
  

What It Takes To Succeed

Experience that set you up for success:

• Minimum 2 years’ experience in a food development environment
  
  

Qualifications & Certifications That Will Contribute To Your Success

• Matric / Grade 12.
• Completed National Higher Diploma in Food Technology or BSC Food Service Degree
  
  

Take the Next Step with I&J

Join us to shape the future of South African seafood while making a meaningful impact on communities and the environment and be part of a team committed to excellence and making a positive impact.