New Product Developer Technologist

SUMMARY:
-

POSITION INFO:

Duties and Responsibilities

• Assist in compiling and implementing activities, documentation, and records required for the QMS (Quality Management System) and FSMS (Food Safety Management System) of the CKI Value Added Plant.
• Assist in trending laboratory data and reporting findings to the Technical Manager.
• Source safe suppliers, procuring Food Safety Management (FSM) certificates and other required QMS/FSMS documentation.
• Compile, submit, and trend supplier incident reports, ensuring non-conformances are resolved safely and satisfactorily with documented feedback.
• Coordinate and execute concept development, kitchen trials, and factory trials in collaboration with the production team.
• Develop and maintain the NPD process (Change Form) for all new products, upgrades, and amendments, ensuring each stage is completed and approved.
• Perform shelf-life assessments, home-freeze tests, and other product-specific verifications, compiling final reports based on laboratory data and organoleptic evaluations for review.
• Develop product specifications and 4P documents per customer, submitting them for review by the Technical and NPD Manager and Planning Manager.
• Verify the accuracy of customer labels and packaging materials.
• Ensure timely and adequate delivery of correct raw materials and packaging for trial purposes.
• Investigate customer complaints and provide detailed reports to the Technical and NPD Manager.
• Assist in monthly internal inspections of the facility and communicate any deviations found to the Technical & New Product Development Manager.
• Perform any reasonable tasks assigned by the Technical & New Product Development Manager.

Requirements:

• Grade 12
• Experience in the Food Industry production environment.
• Proven training in and experience of Food Safety and Quality Management Systems (HACCP, FSSC 22000 and/or BRC).
• An Internal auditing certification will be an advantage.
• Knowledge of the Woolworths FPI system will be an advantage.
• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to collaborate across diverse cultural groups.
• Relevant tertiary qualification (degree or diploma in Food Science / Technology or Microbiology / Biochemistry, or Consumer Science) will be an advantage.
• Commitment to upholding and promoting the company’s food safety culture.
• Self-disciplined, loyal, and productive with a focus on quality outcomes.
• Experience in production environments.
• Ability to work under pressure while maintaining effective communication.
• Strong administrative and organizational skills.
• Computer literacy (Microsoft Office)