Product Applications Specialist FMCG BSc Food Science Cape Town

Personnel Network; Cape Town; On-site; ZAR 300 000 - 400 000; Full time

Job summary

A client in the food industry is seeking a Product Applications Specialist to join their team in Zambia. This role focuses on product development and technical support in the meat and dairy sectors. Ideal candidates should have a BSc degree related to food sciences and experience in product development. Relocation to Zambia is required, alongside competitive benefits including a housing allowance and a company vehicle.

Benefits

Housing Allowance

Company car plus running costs

Full medical aid cover

24 working days leave

Business travel fully covered

Bonus based on company performance

Qualifications

• 3–5 years’ experience in meat and/or dairy processing required.
• Strong experience in New Product Development and recipe development.
• Willingness to relocate to Zambia immediately and travel regionally.

Responsibilities

• Lead product development and technical support for meat and dairy applications.
• Conduct on-site trials and provide customer implementation support.
• Ensure full HACCP and food safety compliance.

Skills

Product development

Technical support

Customer relationship management

Hands-on approach

Strong communication skills

Education

BSc in Food Science, Food Technology, Nutrition, or Biological Sciences

Tools

MS Office (Excel, PowerPoint, Word)

Job description

Overview

We\'re Hiring

Product Applications Specialist – Zambia

Are you passionate about innovation in the meat and dairy industries? Looking to take your skills to an exciting and dynamic new market?

Our client is looking to recruit a to join their team in Zambia, where you’ll drive product development, technical support, and customer success across Zambia and neighbouring African countries.

Location: Zambia (Relocation Required)

Contract: 3-year renewable (subject to work permit approval)

Reporting To: General Manager or Managing Director – Zambia

Role Overview

In this hands-on role, you’ll take the lead in New Product Development (NPD) and provide technical expertise to customers in the meat and dairy sectors. You\'ll play a key role in driving innovation, supporting growth, and building long-lasting client relationships in the region.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead product development and technical support for meat and dairy applications
• Conduct on-site trials and provide customer implementation support
• Ensure full HACCP and food safety compliance
• Build and maintain strong relationships with customers and suppliers
• Identify new ingredient applications to support innovation
• Support export growth across Zambia and neighbouring countries

Requirements

• BSc in Food Science, Food Technology, Nutrition, or Biological Sciences
• 3–5 years’ experience in meat and / or dairy processing
• Strong NPD experience: recipe development, sensory evaluation, product matching
• Sound HACCP knowledge with practical application
• Experience in technical, customer-facing roles
• Exposure to African markets is an advantage
• Valid driver’s license and passport (min. 4 years validity)
• Willing to relocate to Zambia immediately and travel regionally

Core Competencies

• Hands-on, practical approach with initiative
• Strong communication and relationship-building skills
• Proficient in MS Office (Excel, PowerPoint, Word)
• Customer-focused and results-driven
• Adaptable to diverse working and cultural environments

Package & Benefits

• Salary: USD 3,000 / month (paid in Zambian Kwacha, subject to local taxes)
• Housing Allowance: USD 1,000 / month
• Vehicle: Company car (business use) + full running costs
• Medical: Full medical aid cover (Platinum Plus Plan)
• Leave: 24 working days per year
• Travel: Business travel fully covered (flights + accommodation)
• 2 return economy flights per year between Lusaka & Cape Town
• Other Benefits: Laptop, cellphone / data allowance, home internet contribution
• Bonus: Annual discretionary bonus based on company performance
• Note: No gratuity / severance at end of contract