Senior Product Development Scientist

Placements24; Gqeberha; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Bonuses

Health insurance

Paid time off

Training opportunities

R&D environment

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Product Development Scientist to lead the end-to-end development of new FMCG products in Port Elizabeth. You will drive formulation science and oversee experiments to deliver market-ready innovations, partnering with marketing, regulatory, and manufacturing teams.

The role requires a PhD or MSc in a relevant field, with a minimum of six years in FMCG product development, plus a track record of managing complex R&D projects from concept to launch.

Qualifications

• PhD or Master's in Food Science, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or related field.
• Minimum 6 years hands-on product development experience in FMCG.
• Proven ability to manage complex R&D projects from concept to launch.

Responsibilities

• Lead end-to-end development of new FMCG products from ideation through commercialization.
• Conduct research to develop innovative formulations and optimize performance.
• Collaborate with marketing, regulatory, and manufacturing for successful launches.
• Manage laboratory operations, including equipment maintenance, safety protocols, and experimental design.
• Stay updated on scientific advancements and industry trends to identify new opportunities.
• Mentor and guide junior scientists and technicians.

Skills

Formulation science

Analytical techniques

Product development

R&D project management

Problem solving

Education

PhD or MSc in Food Science/Chemistry/Chemical Engineering

Tools

Laboratory equipment management

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leader in the FMCG space, is seeking a highly skilled and innovative Senior Product Development Scientist to join their dynamic research and development team in Port Elizabeth . This crucial role involves leading the innovation pipeline by conceptualizing, developing, and launching new products that meet consumer needs and market demands. You will work at the forefront of product innovation, leveraging scientific expertise to create cutting‑edge formulations and solutions for our client's diverse product range within the FMCG sector . This is an exceptional opportunity for a seasoned scientist with a passion for creating market‑leading products and driving scientific excellence within a supportive and growth‑oriented organization.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the end-to-end development of new FMCG products from ideation through to commercialization.


• Conduct extensive research and experimentation to develop innovative formulations and optimize product performance.


• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including marketing, regulatory affairs, and manufacturing, to ensure successful product launches.


• Manage laboratory operations, including equipment maintenance, safety protocols, and experimental design.


• Stay updated on the latest scientific advancements, industry trends, and competitive landscape to identify new product opportunities.


• Mentor and guide junior scientists and technicians within the product development team.

Requirements

• PhD or Master's degree in Food Science, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a related scientific discipline.


• A minimum of 6 years of hands‑on experience in product development , preferably within the FMCG industry .


• Proven ability to manage complex R&D projects from concept to launch.


• Strong understanding of formulation science, analytical techniques, and product testing methodologies.


• Excellent problem-solving skills, creativity, and a keen eye for detail.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary and performance-related bonuses.


• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plans.


• Generous paid time off and holiday schedule.


• Opportunities for advanced training and professional conferences.


• A stimulating research environment focused on innovation in the FMCG sector .