Senior FMCG Product Development Chemist (Remote)

Placements24; Vereeniging; Hybrid; ZAR 800,000 - 1,400,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Fully remote

Competitive salary

Performance bonus

Medical aid

Life insurance

Retirement fund

Continued learning

Access to research tools

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior FMCG Product Development Chemist to lead formulation and development of new FMCG products. The role is fully remote but based in Vereeniging, Gauteng, SA, with collaboration across marketing, regulatory, and manufacturing teams.

The ideal candidate has a strong chemistry background, 8+ years in FMCG product development, and expertise in formulation techniques and analytical methods. A remote, yet interactive, work environment is offered.

Qualifications

• MSc or PhD in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering or related field.
• Minimum 8 years of FMCG product development and formulation experience.
• Proven track record of bringing FMCG products to market.
• Expertise in formulation techniques and analytical methods.
• In-depth regulatory knowledge (SABS, ISO).
• Strong project management and multi-project leadership skills.
• Excellent communication and remote collaboration abilities.
• Ability to work independently in a remote team.

Responsibilities

• Lead formulation and development of new FMCG products from concept to launch.
• Conduct laboratory research, stability testing, and performance evaluation.
• Optimize formulations for quality, cost, and sustainability.
• Collaborate with R&D, marketing, regulatory, and manufacturing teams.
• Ensure compliance with industry regulations and quality control.

Skills

Project management

Analytical methods

Regulatory awareness

Communication

Remote collaboration

Education

MSc or PhD in Chemistry (or related)

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a distinguished leader in the Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) sector, is seeking a highly experienced **Senior FMCG Product Development Chemist** to join their innovative team on a fully remote basis. This critical role will involve leading the research, development, and formulation of new and improved FMCG products, with a focus on ensuring product safety, efficacy, and consumer appeal. You will be instrumental in driving product innovation, from concept to commercialization, working closely with marketing, regulatory affairs, and manufacturing teams. The ideal candidate will possess a strong background in chemistry, extensive experience in product development within the FMCG industry, and a passion for creating market-leading products. This remote position offers a unique opportunity to leverage your expertise in a flexible and collaborative environment, contributing significantly to our client's ongoing success. Although based in **Vereeniging, Gauteng**, the remote nature of this role allows for broader talent acquisition. We are seeking a visionary scientist who can translate consumer needs into groundbreaking product formulations.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the formulation and development of new FMCG products, including beverages, personal care items, or household goods, aligning with market trends and consumer needs.
• Conduct laboratory research, stability testing, and performance evaluation of product formulations.
• Optimize existing product formulations to improve quality, cost-effectiveness, and sustainability.
• Collaborate with R&D, marketing, regulatory, and manufacturing teams throughout the product development lifecycle.
• Ensure all product development activities comply with relevant industry regulations, safety standards, and quality control procedures.
• Troubleshoot and resolve formulation and processing issues encountered during development and scale-up.
• Stay abreast of scientific advancements, new ingredients, and emerging technologies relevant to FMCG product development.
• Prepare technical reports, documentation, and present findings to cross-functional teams and senior management.
• Mentor junior chemists and contribute to building a strong R&D culture.

Requirements

• MSc or PhD in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a closely related scientific discipline.
• Minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in product development and formulation within the FMCG industry.
• Proven track record of successfully bringing new FMCG products to market.
• Expertise in various formulation techniques and analytical methods relevant to FMCG products.
• In-depth knowledge of regulatory requirements and safety standards (e.g., SABS, ISO) applicable to FMCG products.
• Excellent problem-solving, critical thinking, and decision-making skills.
• Strong project management abilities and experience managing multiple projects simultaneously.
• Exceptional communication and presentation skills, with the ability to articulate complex scientific concepts clearly.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and collaborate effectively in a remote team setting.
• Familiarity with Vereeniging's industrial landscape or broader Gauteng market is advantageous.

Benefits

• Fully remote work arrangement, providing exceptional flexibility and work-life balance.
• Highly competitive salary package, reflecting the seniority and expertise required.
• Attractive performance-based bonus structure.
• Comprehensive medical aid, life insurance, and retirement fund.
• Opportunities for continuous learning, attending conferences, and professional development.
• Access to state-of-the-art laboratory resources and research tools (if applicable, otherwise remote collaboration tools).
• A stimulating and innovative research environment.