
Food Scientist
- Stellenbosch, Western Cape
- Permanent
- Full-time
- Design, test, and improve new menu items that align with customer preferences and brand identity.
- Lead product sampling sessions and gather feedback to refine recipes and processes.
- Research food trends and apply scientific knowledge to enhance taste, nutrition, and shelf life.
- Conduct quality assessments at abattoirs, processing facilities, and outlets.
- Monitor compliance with food safety standards, regulations, and company policies.
- Apply scientific methods to identify root causes of quality issues and recommend solutions.
- Evaluate supplier processes, raw material quality, and abattoir standards, including animal welfare and hygiene.
- Provide technical input to improve consistency, efficiency, and product yield.
- Collaborate with suppliers to develop innovative solutions that support cost and quality objectives.
- Use scientific analysis to measure product performance and shelf life.
- Document product trials, quality assessments, and corrective actions.
- Present data-driven insights to senior management for decision-making.
- Tertiary qualification in Food Science, Food Technology, or a related field
- 3 to 5 years’ experience in food science, quality assurance, or product development (preferably in QSR, FMCG, or poultry industry).
- Hands-on experience with abattoirs and supplier quality management.
- Knowledge of African food regulations and international quality standards.
- Strong knowledge of food science, microbiology, and chemistry in relation to poultry and fried foods.
- Expertise in product development, sensory evaluation, and food formulation.
- In-depth understanding of legislative and other food safety systems.
- Analytical thinker with problem-solving skills.
- Strong communication and stakeholder management abilities.
- High flexibility and willingness to travel frequently.