Remote FMCG Product Innovator - Launch & Scale New Goods

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

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.