Product Development Scientist - FMCG

Placements24; Bloemfontein; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health, dental, vision benefits

Generous paid time off

Retirement savings plan

Access to advanced research facilities

Job summary

Placements24 in Bloemfontein is seeking a Product Development Scientist to drive conceptualization, development and launch of new FMCG products. You will work in a state-of-the-art lab, collaborating with cross-functional teams to move ideas from concept to market.

The ideal candidate has a strong food science background, 5+ years in product development, and expertise in formulation, sensory evaluation and regulatory compliance. Office-based role in Bloemfontein with opportunities for innovation.

Qualifications

• Master's or PhD in a relevant field.
• 5+ years of FMCG product development experience.
• Expertise in product formulation, sensory evaluation, and analytics.
• Knowledge of food safety regulations and quality assurance.

Responsibilities

• Lead development of new FMCG products from concept to commercialization.
• Conduct formulation research, ingredient sourcing, and testing for quality and safety.
• Optimize existing formulations to improve performance or reduce costs.
• Collaborate with marketing, regulatory, and manufacturing throughout the lifecycle.
• Stay updated on scientific advances and regulatory changes in FMCG.
• Document research, development, and testing activities meticulously.

Skills

Product formulation

Sensory evaluation

Analytical techniques

Regulatory knowledge

Teamwork

Education

Master's or PhD in Food Science

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leader in the FMCG industry, is seeking an innovative and experienced Product Development Scientist to join their research and development team in Bloemfontein . This role is crucial for conceptualizing, developing, and launching new and improved products that meet consumer needs and market demands. You will work in a state-of-the-art laboratory environment, collaborating with cross-functional teams to bring exciting new FMCG products from idea to market. The ideal candidate is passionate about food science, possess a strong understanding of product formulation, and thrives in a creative, problem-solving atmosphere.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the development of new FMCG products from concept to commercialization, ensuring alignment with market trends and consumer preferences.
• Conduct formulation research, ingredient sourcing, and product testing to ensure quality, safety, and efficacy.
• Optimize existing product formulations to improve performance, reduce costs, or enhance sensory attributes.
• Collaborate closely with marketing, regulatory affairs, and manufacturing teams throughout the product development lifecycle.
• Stay abreast of scientific advancements, emerging technologies, and regulatory changes relevant to the FMCG sector.
• Document all research, development, and testing activities meticulously.

Requirements

• Master's or PhD in Food Science, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a related scientific discipline.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in product development within the FMCG industry , with a focus on food or beverage products.
• Proven expertise in product formulation, sensory evaluation, and analytical techniques.
• Strong understanding of food safety regulations and quality assurance principles.
• Excellent problem-solving abilities and a creative approach to innovation.
• Effective communication and teamwork skills, with experience working in a lab setting in Bloemfontein .

Benefits

• Competitive salary and performance-based incentives.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision benefits.
• Generous paid time off and retirement savings plan.
• Access to advanced research facilities and opportunities for continued learning.
• Be part of a forward-thinking R&D team shaping the future of FMCG products.