SUMMARY:
The R&D Technologist exists to lead product innovation from concept design through to factory implementation while optimizing existing formulations for quality and cost efficiency.
POSITION INFO:
R&D Technologist
Develop and improve food products and processes within a manufacturing environment focused on fats and oils.
Durban, FMCG Food Manufacturing, Up to R20 000 per month
About Our Client
The company is an FMCG manufacturer involved in the production of fats and oils. It operates within a manufacturing environment that integrates sales, marketing, production, quality, and procurement teams to drive product innovation.
The Role: R&D Technologist
The R&D Technologist exists to lead product innovation from concept design through to factory implementation while optimizing existing formulations for quality and cost efficiency. This role contributes to the business by ensuring all products meet food safety and regulatory standards while supporting sensory, stability, and shelf-life improvements. The main focus areas include conducting trials, managing technical documentation, and translating lab-scale formulations into full-scale manufacturing.
Key Responsibilities
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Utilize required experience in food manufacturing to lead product innovation projects from concept to factory implementation.
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Reformulate existing products to improve quality, cost efficiency, or nutritional value.
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Conduct lab-scale and factory trials to validate formulations and processes.
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Develop and maintain product specifications, formulations, and standard operating procedures.
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Ensure all R&D activities comply with food safety, quality, and regulatory standards such as FSSC 22000, HACCP, and Codex.
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Troubleshoot process or formulation challenges in collaboration with production and quality teams.
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Engage with new raw material and packaging suppliers to source and approve ingredients.
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Conduct ingredient functionality studies, competitor benchmarking, and market trend analysis.
About You
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Qualification in Food Tech or Biotech.
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Experience in food manufacturing and the FMCG sector.
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Technical knowledge of food safety, legislation, and market trends.
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Strong technical problem-solving and analytical skills.
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Ability to manage multiple development projects simultaneously.
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Attention to detail and commitment to product quality and safety.
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Excellent communication skills with the ability to interact at a middle management level.
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Proficiency in planning, time management, and prioritizing tasks.
