Product Development Scientist - FMCG

Placements24; Polokwane; On-site; ZAR 600,000 - 800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement plan

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 in Polokwane seeks a Product Development Scientist to join its R&D team in the FMCG sector. You will drive formulation development from ideation through pilot testing and scale-up, ensuring high quality, safety and consumer appeal.

Collaborate with marketing, regulatory, and manufacturing, develop analytical methods, maintain meticulous documentation, and stay ahead of industry trends. A strong background in chemistry or food science with 3–5 years of relevant experience is required.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master’s degree in Chemistry, Food Science, Chemical Engineering, or a related scientific discipline.
• 3–5 years of experience in product development or R&D, preferably FMCG or related industries.

Responsibilities

• Conduct research and development to create new product formulations and improve existing ones, focusing on FMCG applications.
• Perform laboratory experiments, analyze results, and document findings meticulously according to R&D protocols.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including marketing, regulatory affairs, and manufacturing, to ensure successful product development and commercialization.
• Develop and validate analytical methods for testing raw materials, intermediates, and finished products.
• Prepare technical reports, specifications, and regulatory documentation related to product development.
• Stay abreast of scientific advancements, industry trends, and competitive product landscapes within the FMCG sector.

Skills

Formulation science

Analytical techniques

Laboratory skills

Documentation & reporting

Problem solving

Team collaboration

Education

Bachelor's/Master's in Chemistry or related

Tools

Laboratory equipment

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a highly innovative and technically skilled Product Development Scientist to join their R&D team within the FMCG sector in Polokwane . This role is focused on the creation and improvement of new and existing product formulations, ensuring they meet high standards of quality, safety, and consumer appeal. You will be involved in the entire product lifecycle, from ideation and formulation through to pilot testing and scale-up support. This is a fantastic opportunity for a scientifically minded individual to contribute directly to the innovation pipeline of a leading FMCG company .

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct research and development to create new product formulations and improve existing ones, focusing on FMCG applications.
• Perform laboratory experiments, analyze results, and document findings meticulously according to R&D protocols.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including marketing, regulatory affairs, and manufacturing, to ensure successful product development and commercialization.
• Develop and validate analytical methods for testing raw materials, intermediates, and finished products.
• Prepare technical reports, specifications, and regulatory documentation related to product development.
• Stay abreast of scientific advancements, industry trends, and competitive product landscapes within the FMCG sector .

Requirements

• A minimum of 3-5 years of experience in product development or R&D, preferably within the FMCG or related industries (e.g., food science, cosmetics, household goods).
• A strong understanding of formulation science, chemistry, and analytical techniques relevant to product development.
• Experience with laboratory equipment and methodologies for testing and analysis.
• Excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to approach challenges with innovative solutions.
• Strong documentation and reporting skills, with attention to detail.
• A Bachelor's or Master's degree in Chemistry, Food Science, Chemical Engineering, or a related scientific discipline.

Benefits

• Competitive salary commensurate with experience and qualifications.
• Opportunity to work on exciting new product development projects for leading FMCG brands .
• Comprehensive health insurance, retirement savings plan, and other benefits.
• Access to state-of-the-art laboratory facilities and professional development opportunities in Polokwane .
• A collaborative and innovative research environment focused on scientific excellence.