NPD Technologist (CR733)

Our client, an agri-business with various entities in the agricultural /  food processing industries is looking for a New Product Development Technologist to join their team in Epping Industrial 1 (the successful candidate will also be required to travel to their Woodstock hub from time to time).  They are passionate about innovation, quality, and delivering excellence to both retail and manufacturing clients.

The suitable candidate will support the development and execution of new and improved food products — from initial concept through to final launch. You’ll conduct hands-on product trials, manage related documentation, and work cross-functionally with Production, Technical, and Procurement teams.

KEY PERFORMANCE AREAS

• Co-ordinate launches of new products from concept to implementation in factory.

• Work closely with our development hub and Technical team throughout all new product developments, which includes retail products as well as products for other food manufacturing operations.

• Co-ordinate and attend trials of all products in the development phase.

• Maintain NPD documentation: This includes compiling product specifications, new product ingredient statements and supplying all documentation required by customers throughout the NPD process.

• Manage shelf life trials of new developments.

• Assist with the reviewing of product labels to ensure compliance with relevant labelling legislation.

• Work closely with Raw Materials Technologist when introducing new ingredients or packaging.

• Work closely with Technical and Production teams when introducing new products/ processes into the factory.

• Build relationships with customers.

• Participate in cross-functional teams to ensure resolution of technical, quality and/ or production problems.

• Be an active member of the Food Safety Team.

REQUIREMENTS

• BTech/BSc Food Science and/ or Food Technology diploma.

• Minimum 2 years’ experience in a food factory environment.

• A passion for food and creativity, ability to stay abreast of local and international food trends would be an advantage.

• Must be a self-starter and be able to take ownership of assigned projects within the small NPD team.

• Good interpersonal and communication skills – client facing, working with NPD teams from our customer base and retailers.

• Excellent attention to detail.

• Proficient in Microsoft Office; experience with Woolworths FPI system is an advantage.

• Have own transport and be willing to work from locations in Epping Industrial 1 and Woodstock as well as travel to customers.

SALARY:

Negotiable depending on experience

Please use the following reference number in the subject line of your email:  CR733 when applying for this position. Please submit your CV in Word Format, salary expectation as well as notice period to info@cardosorecruitment.co.za.  Kindly consider your application unsuccessful should you not receive feedback within 1 week.