Product Development Scientist - FMCG

Placements24; Cape Town; On-site; ZAR 600,000 - 900,000; Full time

Job summary

Our client, a leader in the FMCG sector, seeks an innovative Product Development Scientist to join their R&D team in Upington, Northern Cape. You will create and refine new product formulations, conduct lab experiments, scale-up processes, and collaborate with cross-functional teams from concept to commercialization.

Responsibilities include leading product development from concept to market launch, optimizing formulations for performance and cost, and staying abreast of trends and regulatory

Qualifications

• Minimum of 5 years of product development experience in FMCG.
• Proven formulation development and scale-up experience.
• Strong knowledge of product safety, regulatory compliance and QA principles.
• Excellent research, analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Experience with laboratory techniques and relevant analytical instrumentation.

Responsibilities

• Lead the development of new FMCG products from concept generation through to market launch.
• Conduct laboratory-scale research, formulation development and sensory evaluation of new products.
• Optimize existing product formulations for improved performance, cost-effectiveness and consumer appeal.
• Collaborate with marketing, regulatory affairs and manufacturing teams throughout the product development lifecycle.
• Scale up laboratory processes to pilot and commercial production, ensuring successful transfer and implementation.
• Stay updated on industry trends, scientific advancements and competitor product innovations.

Skills

Product development

Formulation development

Scale-up

Regulatory knowledge

Analytical thinking

Education

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

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leader in the FMCG sector, is seeking an innovative and experienced Product Development Scientist to join their Research and Development team in Upington, Northern Cape. This role is central to creating and refining new product formulations and improving existing ones, ensuring they meet consumer needs and market trends. You will conduct laboratory experiments, scale-up processes, and collaborate with cross-functional teams from concept to commercialization. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to product innovation and shape the future offerings within the fast-paced FMCG market.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the development of new FMCG products from concept generation through to market launch.
• Conduct laboratory-scale research, formulation development, and sensory evaluation of new products.
• Optimize existing product formulations for improved performance, cost-effectiveness, and consumer appeal.
• Collaborate closely with marketing, regulatory affairs, and manufacturing teams throughout the product development lifecycle.
• Scale up laboratory processes to pilot and commercial production, ensuring successful transfer and implementation.
• Stay updated on industry trends, scientific advancements, and competitor product innovations.

Requirements

• Master's or PhD degree in Food Science, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a related scientific discipline.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in product development, preferably within the FMCG industry (e.g., food, beverages, personal care).
• Proven experience in formulation development, process optimization, and scale-up.
• Strong understanding of product safety, regulatory compliance, and quality assurance principles.
• Excellent research, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• Proficiency in laboratory techniques and relevant analytical instrumentation.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and attractive bonus structure.
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund benefits.
• Generous opportunities for professional development, including further education and conferences.
• State-of-the-art laboratory facilities and resources.
• Be at the forefront of innovation in the dynamic FMCG product landscape.