Overview
Products Development Technologist Jobs in Tzaneen, South Africa at Westfalia Fruit
Position: New Products Development Technologist
Location: Tzaneen
Westfalia Fruit, a leading multinational supplier of fresh fruit and related value-added products to global markets. Through our vertically-integrated supply chain we grow, source, ripen, pack, process and market quality avocadoes & fresh produce – 365 days a year & across the globe.
With the largest avocado-growing footprint in the world, we are recognised as the leading #avo experts and considered as the supplier of choice to both retail & wholesale customers whom we serve from sales offices in the UK, Europe, North America, Latin America & Southern Africa.
Westfalia Fruit Estate, situated in Limpopo, Tzaneen, has a vacancy for a suitably qualified and experienced: New Products Development Technologist
Purpose of the role:
To support the Research & Development (R&D) department in aligning with and achieving the business strategy through systematic R&D processes and innovation. As a service-oriented function, R&D plays a critical role in supporting various business units and departments by driving product development, quality improvement, and compliance.
Requirements
Key Responsibilities:
Develop new products in line with business objectives.
Execute sample requests for internal and external customers.
Lead and conduct factory trials to ensure product viability.
Perform sensory evaluations on products.
• Conduct shelf-life studies and report findings.
Ensure proper documentation and control of R&D procedures.
Order necessary equipment and services for R&D operations.
• Apply knowledge of food microbiology, food chemistry, and HACCP principles.
Support certification processes, including BRC compliance.
Education:
Degree in Food Sciences
Experience:
Minimum of 2 years of experience in a similar role within the fruit processing industry (advantageous).
Skills:
Advanced proficiency in MS Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) with expert-level skills in Word and PowerPoint.
Strong report writing and documentation skills.
Excellent communication and presentation abilities.
Behavioural Competencies:
High commitment to accuracy and quality.
Strong attention to detail.
• Proactive, energetic, and driven.
Ability to perform under pressure and handle stress effectively.
High level of integrity and ethical standards
Team-oriented with the ability to work independently.
Flexible and adaptable in a dynamic environment.
Solution-focused mindset.
Benefits
The Company offers a Total Guaranteed Remuneration Package, which comprises a provident fund, insured benefits, medical aid, and an option to structure an annual bonus.
Closing date for applications will be 07 April 2025
NB:
Should you not receive correspondence 01 May 2025, please regard your application as being unsuccessful
Title: Products Development Technologist
Company: Westfalia Fruit
Location: Tzaneen, South Africa
Category: Engineering (Research Scientist, Quality Engineering)
