Research & Development Specialist - Foodline

JOB PURPOSE

• To translate concepts and strategic launch plans of the company into products which pass the numerous criteria set for such a launch/product.
• To evaluate ingredients and packaging materials suitable for the formulation/recipe and within required quality and cost criteria.
• To develop formulations/recipes for the category and fill up bank with ready-to-commercialize prototypes.
• To conduct shelf life tests and develop correlation of product quality vs. ageing.
• To work and coordinate with different project teams/task force.
• To continuously research on new trends, products or concepts and create acceptable prototypes.
• To look for alternative ingredients, processes and equipment for continuous improvement, cost reduction and efficiency.
• To support other department requirement for prototype and samples for market and other tests.
• To do product troubleshooting (formulation or processing) whenever needed.
• To be the custodian of R&D assigned equipment and laboratory and to make sure that these are running well and properly calibrated
• To monitor and check competitor product's quality and performance.
• To lead, supervise and monitor performance of personnel engaged with R&D activities whether on temporary or permanent basis.
• To achieve required Key Performance Indicators (KPI) set forth for the position.
• Develop key competencies required of R&D personnel (e.g. flavor language, flavor and aroma profiling, etc)

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Hands-on development of prototype based on Project brief details.
• Determine optimum process requirements using existing machines and capacities/capabilities.
• Propose new lines or improvement of lines with the approval of the Manufacturing Head.
• Carefully determine and provide product development chart and timelines based on project requirement or complexity.
• Coordinate and update project progress with concerned project teams or departments based on project calendar or timeline.
• Coordinate with Purchasing and PPIC on materials needed for prototyping and process establishment (i.e. Batch trials, processing trials, etc.)
• Directly responsible for the operation of the R&D laboratory (i.e. equipment, supplies, instrumentation and personnel activities).
• Prepare needed prototype sample as needed by Marketing, Purchasing as approved by the Manufacturing Head.
• Perform and simulate store conditions through careful but effective use of simulated room and conditions. Update concerned teams with regards to shelf life determination and progress.
• Initiate brainstorming activities to collect insights on new products to be developed.
• Do product benchmarking activities as required.
• Develop system of monitoring ingredient stock levels in the laboratory and properly request for replenishment if needed.
• Coordinate with production team if adjustment on recipe or formulation, and/or processing parameters are needed.
• Qualify new and alternative materials.
• Manage and update all documentation of standard procedures, monitoring forms used in the R&D processes.
• Safekeep documentation of company intellectual property in terms of formulation, processes and specifications.
• Do active part in projects or tasks which may be assigned from time to

REQUIREMENTS:

Education Requirements: Bachelor's or Master's Degree in Food Technology, Chemistry, or Chemical Engineering or Applied Sciences or other relevant discipline.

Experience Requirements:

• Proficiency with Microsoft Office.
• Minimum three (3) years' research and development/product development in a FMCG (food) business environment or comparable equivalent. Preferable extensive experience with confectionery, powder mixes, baked goods/products.
• Knowledge of Stage-gate NPD (New product development) process is an advantage.
• Effective written and oral communication, organization, and interpersonal skills; ability to review and interpret concepts and to communicate necessary actions and requests clearly and concisely.
• Self -driven, can work with minimum supervision.
• High regard for respect in the workplace with good ethical and moral judgment.
• Ability to be flexible in a dynamic work environment.
• Working knowledge of ERP/MRP principles and materials management is an advantage.
• Strong understanding of functions of ingredients for confectionery, powder mixes and bakery.
• Strong oral and written communication skills. He/she must have the ability to communicate at all levels and have great interpersonal skills.