Job Title: R&D Technologist
Location: Ajman, UAE
Department: Research & Development
Nationality: All nationalities welcome
Experience Required: Minimum 5 years in food R&D (mandatory)
Job Summary:
We are seeking an experienced and forward-thinking R&D Technologist (Food) to spearhead high-level food innovation and product development initiatives. This strategic role focuses on driving concept-to-commercialization projects, pioneering cutting-edge food technologies, and delivering high-performance products aligned with market trends and regulatory frameworks. The ideal candidate brings deep technical expertise, a strong innovation mindset, and proven experience in food research, formulation, and cross-functional execution.
Key Responsibilities: Product Innovation & Development:
- Lead the development of novel, commercially viable food products with emphasis on innovation, consumer appeal, and functional benefits.
- Design and execute lab-scale and pilot plant trials for new and reformulated products.
- Refine formulations for sensory quality, nutritional profile, cost-efficiency, and scalability.
- Champion clean-label, sustainable, and health-forward food innovation.
Research & Technical Exploration:
- Investigate emerging ingredients, processing technologies, and functional systems to drive R&D pipeline.
- Analyze consumer, market, and competitor trends to identify new opportunities.
- Collaborate on feasibility studies and long-term R&D roadmaps.
Regulatory & Quality Assurance:
- Ensure all product formulations and processes comply with local and international regulations (UAE, FDA, FSSAI, EU, etc.).
- Support QA/QC in validation of new product specifications and compliance documentation.
- Contribute to product lifecycle documentation including nutritional data, allergen info, and technical dossiers.
Cross-Functional Collaboration:
- Work closely with Marketing, Production, Procurement, and Supply Chain teams to ensure seamless product development and launch.
- Lead the scale-up process from R&D to full manufacturing, identifying and resolving formulation or process challenges.
- Provide R&D technical support during audits, supplier reviews, and customer evaluations.
Data & Documentation:
- Maintain comprehensive records of R&D trials, results, and modifications.
- Prepare detailed technical reports, presentations, and samples for internal and external stakeholders.
Qualifications & Requirements:
Education:
- Bachelor’s or master’s degree in food engineering, or a closely related discipline.
Experience:
- Minimum 5 years of hands-on experience in food R&D, product formulation, or technical innovation roles.
- Proven track record of successful product launches and technical project ownership.
Skills & Competencies:
- Deep knowledge of food chemistry, functional ingredients, microbiology, and processing technologies.
- Expertise in lab and pilot-scale equipment and operations.
- Strong analytical skills with experience in sensory evaluation and statistical testing.
- Proficient in managing multiple projects with structured documentation and reporting.
- Familiarity with regulatory frameworks and food safety systems (e.g., HACCP, FSSC 22000, GMP).
- Excellent communication, collaboration, and problem-solving skills.
Preferred:
- Experience in functional foods, plant-based innovation, nutraceuticals, or clean-label product lines.
- Working knowledge of ERP/PLM systems for product development.
- Additional certifications in HACCP, ISO 22000, GMP, or equivalent systems.
Job Type: Full-time