Product Development Specialist - FMCG

Placements24; Polokwane; Hybrid; ZAR 420,000 - 700,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Paid time off

Performance bonuses

Exposure to cutting-edge product dev

Job summary

Placements24 in Polokwane, Limpopo, is seeking a Product Development Specialist to drive new product innovation and optimize existing lines. The role blends laboratory work with cross-functional collaboration to bring products from concept to market.

The ideal candidate has 3–5 years in product development, with a strong background in formulation, sensory evaluation, and regulatory awareness, in a hybrid work setting in Limpopo.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or related field.
• Master's degree preferred for advanced roles.
• 3-5 years of experience in product development, preferably FMCG.
• Experience in formulation, sensory evaluation, and analytical techniques.
• Strong knowledge of food processing technologies and QA standards.
• Excellent research, problem-solving, and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead ideation, development, and formulation of new FMCG products.
• Conduct lab experiments and product testing for quality and safety.
• Optimize formulations for taste, texture, cost, and shelf-life.
• Collaborate with marketing, procurement, and manufacturing for launches.
• Stay updated on industry innovations and regulatory changes.
• Prepare specifications, documentation, and reports.

Skills

Product development

Formulation

Sensory evaluation

Analytical techniques

Research

Problem solving

Communication

Teamwork

Regulatory knowledge

Education

Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Chemistry, or related

Master's degree preferred

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a distinguished name in the FMCG sector, is seeking a talented and innovative Product Development Specialist to join their Research & Development team in Polokwane, Limpopo . This role is crucial for driving new product innovation and enhancing existing product lines to meet evolving consumer demands. The specialist will be involved in the entire product development lifecycle, from concept generation and formulation to product testing and commercialization. This hybrid position requires a blend of creativity, scientific rigor, and collaborative spirit, with opportunities to work both within the laboratory and engage with cross-functional teams. We are looking for a passionate individual with a strong understanding of food science or related fields, eager to contribute to the success of our client's diverse product portfolio in the Limpopo region and beyond.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the ideation, development, and formulation of new FMCG products, aligning with market trends and consumer preferences.
• Conduct laboratory experiments and product testing to ensure quality, safety, and efficacy.
• Optimize existing product formulations for improved taste, texture, cost-effectiveness, and shelf-life.
• Collaborate with marketing, procurement, and manufacturing teams to ensure seamless product launches.
• Stay abreast of industry innovations, scientific advancements, and regulatory changes relevant to product development.
• Prepare product specifications, technical documentation, and research reports.
• Support pilot plant trials and scale-up activities for new product commercialization.
• Troubleshoot and resolve technical challenges encountered during the product development process.
• Ensure compliance with food safety standards and regulatory requirements.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a related scientific discipline.
• Master's degree preferred.
• Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in product development, preferably within the FMCG industry.
• Proven experience in product formulation, sensory evaluation, and analytical techniques.
• Strong understanding of food processing technologies and manufacturing principles.
• Excellent research, problem-solving, and analytical skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, essential for cross-functional collaboration in a hybrid setting.
• Knowledge of regulatory requirements and quality assurance standards in the food industry.
• Based in or willing to commute to Polokwane, Limpopo for hybrid work requirements.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary, comprehensive health benefits, and a robust retirement savings plan. This role provides significant opportunities for professional growth and development within a leading FMCG company. Employees will enjoy a dynamic and innovative work environment, contributing to exciting new product launches.

• Paid time off
• Potential for performance bonuses
• Exposure to cutting-edge product development practices in Polokwane, Limpopo