Remote Product Development Scientist - FMCG

Placements24; Randburg; Hybrid; ZAR 700,000 - 1,100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Fully remote

Competitive salary

R&D tools access

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Product Development Scientist for a fully remote role across South Africa. You will lead ideation, formulation, and launch of innovative FMCG products, working with virtual teams to drive quality, safety, and market success.

You will apply formulation science, regulatory knowledge, and strong project management to deliver consumer-loved products while staying aligned with sustainability goals and brand strategy.

Qualifications

• Master's or Ph.D. in Food Science, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or related field.
• 5-8 years of progressive experience in product development in FMCG.
• Proven track record of launching new products.
• Strong knowledge of formulation science, ingredient functionality, and analytical techniques.
• Familiarity with regulatory requirements and quality systems in FMCG.

Responsibilities

• Lead the development of new FMCG products from concept to commercialization.
• Conduct research to formulate products, optimize formulations, and improve performance.
• Perform sensory evaluations, shelf-life studies, and stability testing.
• Collaborate with marketing, regulatory affairs, and manufacturing to ensure feasibility and scale-up.
• Stay abreast of science and consumer trends relevant to FMCG.
• Develop and document product specifications, processes, and QA procedures.
• Ensure compliance with safety and industry standards.
• Troubleshoot technical issues during development and scale-up.
• Manage multiple projects with timelines and budgets.
• Prepare technical reports and stakeholder presentations.

Skills

Formulation science

Ingredient functionality

Analytical techniques

Regulatory knowledge

Project management

Stakeholder engagement

Communication skills

Education

Master's/PhD in Food Science/ chemistry/ chemical engineering

Job description

About the Role

Our client, an innovative leader in the Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) sector, is looking for an experienced and creative Product Development Scientist to join their dynamic research and development team. This position is fully remote, offering the flexibility to work from anywhere within South Africa. You will play a pivotal role in conceptualizing, developing, and launching new FMCG products, focusing on innovation, consumer trends, and sustainable practices. The ideal candidate will possess a strong scientific background, a deep understanding of product formulation, sensory analysis, and regulatory requirements within the food and beverage or personal care industries. This remote-first role requires exceptional project management skills, the ability to collaborate effectively with virtual cross-functional teams, and a passion for bringing groundbreaking products to market. You will be instrumental in driving our client's product pipeline, ensuring the delivery of high-quality, market-leading products that delight consumers and meet stringent quality and safety standards. Your scientific expertise will be the foundation for future product success.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the development of new FMCG products from concept ideation through to commercialization.
• Conduct research and experimentation to formulate new products, optimize existing formulations, and improve product performance.
• Perform sensory evaluations, shelf-life studies, and stability testing to ensure product quality and consumer acceptance.
• Collaborate closely with marketing, regulatory affairs, and manufacturing teams to ensure product feasibility and successful scale-up.
• Stay abreast of emerging scientific research, technological advancements, and consumer trends relevant to the FMCG industry.
• Develop and document product specifications, manufacturing processes, and quality control procedures.
• Ensure all product development activities comply with relevant food safety, regulatory, and industry standards.
• Troubleshoot and resolve technical issues that arise during product development and scale-up.
• Manage multiple product development projects simultaneously, ensuring adherence to timelines and budgets.
• Prepare technical reports, presentations, and documentation for internal and external stakeholders.

Requirements

• Master's or Ph.D. in Food Science, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a related scientific discipline.
• Minimum of 5-8 years of progressive experience in product development, preferably within the FMCG sector (e.g., food & beverage, personal care, household goods).
• Proven track record of successfully launching new products into the market.
• Strong knowledge of formulation science, ingredient functionality, and analytical techniques.
• Familiarity with regulatory requirements and quality assurance systems in the FMCG industry.
• Excellent project management, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work independently, manage time effectively, and collaborate within a virtual team environment.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills for effective stakeholder engagement.
• Proficiency in relevant scientific software and laboratory techniques.
• Passion for innovation and a keen understanding of consumer needs in the FMCG market.

Benefits

• Fully remote working arrangement, offering significant flexibility and work-life integration.
• Highly competitive salary and bonus structure.
• Opportunity to innovate and shape the future of FMCG products.
• Access to state-of-the-art virtual R&D resources and tools.
• Professional development opportunities and continuous learning support.
• Be part of a forward-thinking R&D team dedicated to excellence.
• Work on exciting projects with a leading brand in the FMCG industry.
• Contribute to sustainable product development initiatives.