Remote FMCG Product Developer

Placements24; Stellenbosch; Hybrid; ZAR 600,000 - 900,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a creative and experienced Product Developer to join the innovation team on a fully remote basis, supporting operations impacting the Paarl, Western Cape area. You will conceptualize, develop, and bring new FMCG products to market, overseeing ideation, formulation, pilot testing, and scale-up support.

You will collaborate with marketing, R&D, regulatory, and manufacturing, ensuring products meet quality and regulatory standards while staying ahead of market trends.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Food Science, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a related scientific discipline.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in product development within the FMCG sector, specifically with packaged consumer goods.
• Proven track record of successfully launching new products from concept to commercialization.
• Strong understanding of product formulation, process development, and quality control.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and project management skills.
• Must be self-motivated, resourceful, and comfortable working independently in a remote capacity.

Responsibilities

• Conceptualize, research, and develop new FMCG product ideas based on market analysis, consumer insights, and internal strategic direction.
• Formulate and test new product prototypes, ensuring they meet quality, safety, and regulatory standards.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams—marketing, R&D, regulatory affairs, and manufacturing—through the product development lifecycle.
• Manage pilot plant trials and provide technical support for scale-up to full production.
• Conduct shelf-life studies and stability testing for new and existing products.
• Stay abreast of emerging technologies, ingredients, and consumer trends relevant to FMCG.

Skills

Formulation

Process development

Quality control

Analytical skills

Project management

Remote work

Education

Bachelor's in Food Science

Master's in Food Science/Chemistry/Chemical Engineering

Related scientific discipline

Tools

Pilot plant equipment

Quality systems

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a forward-thinking FMCG company, is seeking a creative and experienced Product Developer to join their innovation team on a fully remote basis, supporting operations impacting the Paarl, Western Cape area. This critical role focuses on conceptualizing, developing, and bringing new FMCG products to market that meet consumer needs and align with market trends. You will be involved in everything from initial ideation and formulation to pilot testing and scale-up support. This is an exceptional opportunity for a passionate product innovator who thrives in a remote work environment and has a strong background in developing successful consumer goods.

Key Responsibilities

• Conceptualize, research, and develop new FMCG product ideas based on market analysis, consumer insights, and internal strategic direction.
• Formulate and test new product prototypes, ensuring they meet quality, safety, and regulatory standards.
• Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams, including marketing, R&D, regulatory affairs, and manufacturing, throughout the product development lifecycle.
• Manage pilot plant trials and provide technical support for the scale-up of new products to full production.
• Conduct shelf-life studies and stability testing for new and existing products.
• Stay abreast of emerging technologies, ingredients, and consumer trends relevant to the FMCG industry .

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Food Science, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a related scientific discipline.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in product development within the FMCG sector , specifically with packaged consumer goods.
• Proven track record of successfully launching new products from concept to commercialization.
• Strong understanding of product formulation, process development, and quality control.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and project management skills.
• Must be self-motivated, resourceful, and comfortable working independently in a remote capacity.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and potential for performance-based bonuses.
• Fully remote work arrangement, providing excellent flexibility and autonomy.
• Opportunities for professional growth and continuous learning in product innovation.
• Be part of a creative and collaborative team driving the future of FMCG products .
• Work from home while contributing to significant product advancements.