Research & Product Development Specialist (Dried Fruit Industry)

SUMMARY:
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POSITION INFO:

Job Title: Research & Product Development Specialist (Dried Fruit Industry)

Location: Hoedspruit, Limpopo
Industry: Food Technology | Dried Fruit Processing & Product Innovation
Employment Type: Full-Time
Start Date: 1 November 2025

About the Opportunity

An established and progressive fruit and vegetable pack house, specialising in dried fruit processing, is seeking an innovative and technically skilled Research & Product Development Specialist to join their team in Hoedspruit. This role is ideal for a passionate food technologist who thrives in a fast-paced, hands-on agri-processing environment and is eager to transform tropical fruit into premium, world-class dried products.

You will play a pivotal role in leading the research, development, and commercialization of new fruit-based products — from concept creation to shelf readiness — while ensuring compliance with food safety standards and aligning innovation with market demand and sustainability goals.

Key Responsibilities

Research & Product Development:

• Drive new product innovation and development from idea conception to market launch.
• Conduct applied research on fruit varieties (particularly mango and tropical fruits), preservation methods, dehydration techniques, and shelf-life optimization.
• Formulate and test value-added fruit products such as dried fruit snacks, fruit powders, purees, and juices.
• Develop and maintain product formulations, process parameters, and production specifications.
• Perform sensory evaluations and quality assessments to ensure consistent taste, texture, and appearance.
• Identify and implement improvements in drying and packaging processes to enhance efficiency and product quality.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with production, procurement, and marketing teams to ensure product feasibility and market alignment.
• Analyse market trends, consumer insights, and competitor products to guide innovation and product positioning.
• Research and evaluate new packaging materials and design trends to improve product presentation and sustainability.

Food Technology & Quality Assurance:

• Ensure compliance with HACCP, food safety, and regulatory standards.
• Conduct lab testing, data analysis, and shelf-life studies to verify product performance and safety.
• Support quality control teams in developing protocols for product consistency and traceability.
• Maintain detailed records of product trials, specifications, and ingredient sourcing.

Administrative & Operational Support:

• Assist management with procurement, logistics, and the ordering of raw materials, packaging, and production inputs for both existing and new product lines.
• Capture and manage data relating to receiving, processing, packing, and purchase orders on the inventory system.
• Support month-end stock counts and ensure accurate data capture.
• Monitor and manage packaging material movement, usage, and stock control.
• Maintain inventory and coordinate requirements for equipment, PPE, and housekeeping supplies.
• Organize and support logistics for internal meetings, product tastings, and visiting delegations.

Minimum Requirements

• Bachelor’s Degree or higher in Food Technology, Food Science, or a related discipline.
• Minimum 2–3 years’ experience in a Research & Development role, preferably within the fruit processing, beverage, or food manufacturing industry.
• Strong understanding of food formulation, sensory evaluation, and processing technologies.
• Proven knowledge of quality control principles, lab testing, and product stability protocols.
• Computer literacy with experience in data capturing, inventory systems, and reporting tools.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and organizational skills.
• A creative mindset with a passion for tropical fruits, sustainability, and product innovation.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team-oriented production environment.

What’s on Offer

• An opportunity to influence and shape the future of premium dried fruit and tropical fruit products.
• Hands-on involvement in cutting-edge research and product innovation within a dynamic agri-processing business.
• A supportive and growth-focused workplace culture that encourages creativity and continuous improvement.
• Competitive salary, aligned with experience and qualifications.
• Career development opportunities in a rapidly expanding segment of the food industry.

Application Process

Qualified candidates who meet the above requirements and are excited about driving innovation in the dried fruit sector are invited to submit a detailed CV and cover letter outlining their relevant experience and achievements.