Product Development Scientist - Food

Our client is seeking an innovative and experienced Product Development Scientist specializing in food science, to join their research and development team in Bloemfontein . This role is pivotal in creating new, high-quality food products that meet consumer needs and market trends within the FMCG sector . You will be responsible for the entire product development lifecycle, from ideation and formulation to benchtop development, pilot plant trials, and scale-up for manufacturing.

The ideal candidate possesses a strong scientific background, a passion for culinary innovation, and a commitment to ensuring product safety and quality throughout the development process.

• Lead the development of new food products from concept to commercialization, adhering to project timelines and budgets.
• Formulate and optimize product recipes, ensuring desired taste, texture, shelf-life, and nutritional profiles.
• Conduct benchtop experiments, sensory evaluations, and shelf-life studies.
• Plan and execute pilot plant trials and support the scale-up process for manufacturing.
• Ensure all product development activities comply with food safety regulations, quality standards, and internal policies.
• Collaborate with marketing, procurement, and operations teams to ensure successful product launches and market acceptance.

• Minimum of 5 years of experience in food product development , preferably within the FMCG industry .
• Strong knowledge of food chemistry, ingredient functionality, and food processing technologies.
• Hands-on experience with product formulation, sensory evaluation, and shelf-life testing.
• Familiarity with GMP, HACCP, and other food safety standards.
• Excellent problem-solving, project management, and communication skills.
• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Food Science, Chemistry, or a related field.

• Competitive annual salary and performance bonus.
• Opportunity to work in a state-of-the-art R&D facility in Bloemfontein .
• Comprehensive health and wellness benefits.
• Generous paid time off and company holidays.
• Support for continuous learning and professional development in food science.