Product Engineer Johannesburg South

Network Contracting Solutions; Johannesburg; On-site; ZAR 300 000 - 400 000; Full time

Job summary

A South African food company is looking for an Assistant Product Development Manager in Johannesburg. The role involves managing product innovation from concept to launch, coordinating cross-functional teams, and ensuring compliance with food safety regulations. Ideal candidates have a relevant degree and 3-7 years of experience in R&D within the FMCG sector. Strong project management and communication skills are essential.

Qualifications

• 3-7 years’ experience in a FMCG food R&D environment.
• Strong knowledge of food safety, GMP, HACCP, CPA, and regulatory frameworks.
• Experience with ingredient and process innovation and product launch.

Responsibilities

• Lead new product development, from concept to market launch.
• Drive cost-saving initiatives and product quality improvements.
• Coordinate cross-functional teams to develop project briefs and timelines.

Skills

Project management

Communication skills

Stakeholder engagement

Data analysis

Knowledge of food safety

Education

Bachelor’s Degree in Food Science or related discipline

National Diploma with substantial industry experience

Tools

Excel

Word

PowerPoint

Job description

Siqalo Foods

New Product Development (Assistant Product Development Manager) – Boksburg, Gauteng, South Africa

About the Role – The Assistant Product Development Manager will manage the research, planning, coordination and execution of product innovation and technical support from concept brief to product launch, driving cost‑saving initiatives and ensuring high‑quality, compliant products.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead new product development, from concept to market launch.
• Drive cost‑saving initiatives and product quality improvements.
• Coordinate cross‑functional teams (R&D, commercial, marketing) to develop project briefs, timelines and deliverables.
• Oversee prototype trials, sensory evaluation, specification drafting and analytical assessment.
• Support the R&D Product & Process Manager with product launches and process optimisation.
• Conduct consumer immersion, trade audits and strategic supplier engagements.

Qualifications & Experience

• Bachelor’s Degree in Food Science, Food Technology, or related scientific discipline (National Diploma acceptable with substantial industry experience).
• 3‑7 years’ experience in a FMCG food R&D environment, preferably with 3 years in R&D.
• Strong knowledge of food safety, GMP, HACCP, CPA, and regulatory frameworks.
• Experience with ingredient and process innovation, cost optimisation, and product launch.
• Excellent project management, communication and stakeholder engagement skills.

Technical Skills

• Data analysis, Excel, Word, PowerPoint.
• Familiarity with R&D principles, production & process management.
• Knowledge of national food legislation and international trends.

Minimum Requirements

• Travel and occasional irregular hours required.
• Work in factory and office environments.
• Active participation in taste sessions.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Siqalo Foods is an equal opportunity employer. In compliance with the Employment Equity Act 55 of 1998, preference will be given to suitable candidates from designated groups whose appointments will contribute to the equitable demographic representation of our workforce profile and add to the diversity of the company.