Product Development Technologist

Placements24; Bloemfontein; On-site; ZAR 420,000 - 660,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Bonuses potential

Medical aid

Retirement fund

On-site training

Lab facilities

Innovative environment

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a skilled Product Development Technologist in Bloemfontein to lead new and existing product development in a fast-moving consumer goods setting. You will work hands-on in the lab and pilot plant, collaborating with R&D, marketing, and production to translate concepts into validated products.

The ideal candidate has a relevant science degree, 3+ years in product development, strong knowledge of food chemistry, and hands-on lab experience.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a related scientific discipline.
• Minimum of 3 years of experience in product development, preferably within the FMCG or food manufacturing industry.
• Strong understanding of food chemistry, processing technologies, and product formulation principles.
• Hands-on experience with laboratory equipment and pilot plant operations.
• Knowledge of food safety standards (e.g., HACCP) and quality control principles.
• Excellent problem-solving skills and attention to detail.

Responsibilities

• Conduct research and development activities for new product formulations and existing product improvements.
• Perform benchtop testing, pilot plant trials, and scale-up activities to optimize product processes.
• Ensure all product development activities comply with food safety regulations, quality standards, and company policies.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams including R&D, marketing, quality assurance, and production.
• Develop and validate analytical methods for raw materials, in-process samples, and finished goods.
• Prepare technical documentation, including specifications, process descriptions, and trial reports.

Skills

Problem-solving

Attention to detail

Laboratory experience

Education

Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a related scientific discipline

Tools

Laboratory equipment

Pilot plant operations

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent name in the FMCG sector, is seeking a skilled and innovative Product Development Technologist to join their dedicated team in Bloemfontein . This role is fundamental to the creation and refinement of new and existing products, ensuring they meet stringent quality standards and consumer expectations. You will work hands-on in laboratory and pilot plant settings, collaborating closely with research, marketing, and production teams to bring new concepts to life. This is an exciting opportunity for a scientifically minded individual passionate about food science and product innovation within the fast-paced consumer goods industry.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct research and development activities for new product formulations and existing product improvements.
• Perform benchtop testing, pilot plant trials, and scale-up activities to optimize product processes.
• Ensure all product development activities comply with food safety regulations, quality standards, and company policies.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams including R&D, marketing, quality assurance, and production.
• Develop and validate analytical methods for raw materials, in-process samples, and finished goods.
• Prepare technical documentation, including specifications, process descriptions, and trial reports.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a related scientific discipline.
• Minimum of 3 years of experience in product development, preferably within the FMCG or food manufacturing industry.
• Strong understanding of food chemistry, processing technologies, and product formulation principles.
• Hands-on experience with laboratory equipment and pilot plant operations.
• Knowledge of food safety standards (e.g., HACCP) and quality control principles.
• Excellent problem-solving skills and attention to detail.

Benefits

• Competitive annual salary and potential for bonuses.
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund.
• On-site training and professional development opportunities.
• Access to state-of-the‑art laboratory facilities.
• Engaging work environment with opportunities for innovation.