74 R D jobs in South Africa

• Lead the laboratory strategy and execution of timely flavour and colour product development .
• Manage projects, collaborate with technical and management teams, interpret client briefs, and ensure final products align with expectations and deadlines.

• Degree in Chemistry, Food Science, or related fields (essential).
• Additional management qualification (advantageous).
• Proven experience in managing laboratory teams with strong understanding of laboratory practices.
• Strong leadership, coaching, and mentoring skills.
• Experience in flavour evaluation, olfactive and gustatory profiling (advantageous).
• Understanding of the flavour & colour market (advantageous).
• Excellent project management and multitasking skills .
• Strong communication and presentation abilities with stakeholder influence skills.
• Creative vision with ability to transform client briefs into innovative solutions.
• Strong problem-solving abilities to resolve technical challenges in flavour and colour development.

• Develop and implement project strategies for flavour and colour development.
• Manage multiple client briefs from concept to execution with timely delivery.
• Collaborate with management, flavour technologists, and creative teams to create innovative flavour profiles.
• Translate client requirements into clear development guidelines.
• Stay informed on market trends, consumer insights, and competitor activity to guide innovation.
• Establish and improve laboratory protocols and SOPs to enhance efficiency.
• Partner with cross-functional teams including sales, QC, and technical to achieve company goals.
• Oversee stability trials, troubleshooting, and evaluation of submissions.
• Mentor and develop junior staff to strengthen laboratory capabilities.
• Streamline development processes by utilising and updating the flavour & colour library.
• Provide monthly progress and resource reports to management.
• Manage training, testing, samples, packaging, consumables, and raw material inventory.

R&D MANAGER

The R&D Manager is responsible for managing the R&D lab activities and for project management related to alternative raw materials, packaging changes, stability testing and post NPD to commercial launches. The successful incumbent will report to the Head of R&D.

Key Performance Areas

• Oversee all R&D lab activities, including setting weekly plans and monitoring progress.

• Manage projects related to regulatory compliance, changes in raw materials, new packaging, and product promotions.

• Chair weekly project tracker meetings, providing clear feedback to the Head of R&D and the broader team.

• Draft and approve departmental SOPs to ensure high standards and efficiency are maintained.

• Troubleshoot and collaborate with the Manufacturing and QA teams to resolve batch failures, reworks, and customer complaints.

• Administration of all documentation from Operational and Stability Chemists to internal and external stakeholders.

• BOM maintenance on Syspro.

• MMI storage, archiving, updating, and issuing.

• Control of IEP/CEP samples and reports.

• Manage and mentor the R&D team, conducting performance appraisals and identifying training needs.

• Ensure that Operational Chemist & Lab Assistants are adequately trained to take NPD and formula upgrade products forward once the project reaches commercial batch manufacturing stage.

• Team administration, including time and attendance monitoring and maintaining discipline.

• Support the Head of R&D in setting and monitoring the departmental budget.

• Manage departmental resources, including the purchasing of consumables and evaluating new equipment.

• Ensure accurate compilation of raw material files and other key documentation.

• Prepare and present monthly statistical reports to the Head of R&D.

Qualifications, Experience & Competencies

• Bachelor of Science (BSc) in a relevant scientific field with Coschem Diploma / Diploma in Cosmetic Formulation and a post graduate qualification in Project Management.

• A minimum of 6 - 8 years in a cosmetic R&D environment, at least 5 years of managerial experience in an R&D environment.

• Proven track record of managing projects, meeting deadlines, and staying within budget.

We are looking for:

The Research and Development Specialist (Product Researcher) is responsible sourcing, testing, and improving new products. This role involves conducting research, analyzing data, prototyping, and ensuring that innovative solutions meet both technical and business requirements. The R&D Specialist will also be responsible for sourcing and purchasing new products or components from suppliers to support innovation and product development, ensuring cost-effectiveness and compliance with company standards.

Knowledge and Abilities:

• Strong analytical and problem solving skills
• Ability to manage multiple projects with attention to detail and deadlines.
• Creative and innovative thinking with a practical approach to implementation.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Team player with the ability to work collaboratively across departments.
• Knowledge of manufacturing processes, materials, and product lifecycle management.
• Ensuring product compliance with applicable South African standards and regulatory frameworks
• Knowledge of global sourcing, procurement, and supplier relationship management.
• Negotiation and cost-analysis skills.
• Keeping up to date with Market Trends

Key Responsibilities:

• Conduct research to identify emerging technologies, market trends, and customer needs relevant to the company's products.
• Source and evaluate new products, components, and technologies from suppliers to introduce into the local market.
• Test prototypes, components, and systems to ensure functionality, reliability, and cost-effectiveness.
• Document all stages of research and development, including design specifications, testing procedures, sourcing processes, and results.
• Ensure compliance with safety, regulatory, and quality standards in all R&D and sourcing activities.
• Identify opportunities for product improvement, innovation, and cost reduction.
• Stay current with industry developments and integrate relevant advancements into company projects.
• Prepare reports, presentations, and technical documents for management and stakeholders.
• Coordinate between the technical department and the suppliers.
• Translate and interpret technical data sheets from suppliers to ensure accurate understanding of product specifications, compliance with local standards, and suitability for integration into company projects.

Boxes to Tick:

• Matric
• 5+ Years experience as an R&D Specialist or in a similar field (Product Researcher)
• Experience in the electrical industry (Advantageous)

Purpose of Role

To execute all tasks and activities in the process plant regarding the operation of laboratory test work and improvement initiatives to ensure adherence to specifications and monitoring production parameters to enable the achievement of metallurgical targets within set parameters and maintaining plant stability in adherence to safety standards in line with the MHSA and Tharisa Risk Management protocols

Role Context

Operational Management

• Execute pilot plant test work activities including analyses and ensure alignment to stipulated recipes to contribute to the achievement of production / metallurgical targets
• Monitor, measure and analyse data for reporting during set intervals and suggest operational adjustments as needed to ensure production quotas and quality standards are met or exceeded
• Monitor and guide plant attendant regarding their execution of tasks and utilisation of plant equipment within defined scope ensuring adherence to the production plans to achieve process stability and efficiency
• Provide physical and technical support during plant and report operational delays and process inefficiencies to minimise bottlenecks and plant lock up
• Participate in the maintenance and repair of all machinery and equipment within the process plant by actively testing and reporting defects to ensure continuous productivity and minimise downtime caused by breakdowns
• Document any identified breakdowns and report to management for escalation and maintenance scheduling
• Contribute to the preparation of reports on production, safety and maintenance activities by recording equipment inspections, repairs and maintenance activities to ensure compliance
• Work across multiple sections in the plant to enable inter-links and integration with the laboratory regarding processes to ensure timely and efficient execution of tasks to maintain plant stability
• Contribute to the implementation of corrective actions within established guidelines to address deviations from specifications including the adjustment and verification of parameters
• Conduct pre-work assessments to ensure all equipment and area of work identifying any risks and concerns and escalate to supervisor ensuring all safety requirements are met

Resource Management

• Determine resource needs of the team and/or own area of work to achieve business outcomes
• Monitor the use of assets and resources within the team and own area of responsibility, to ensure assets and resources are consistently and appropriately utilised and managed
• Request and allocate required equipment and/or resources for the fulfilment of work objectives to guarantee quality outputs
• Address team dynamics and champion teamwork and synergy to create a positive work environment and improve employee relations
• Maintain a comprehensive checklist to consistently check equipment and identify need for spares sourcing and maintenance or replacement

Stakeholder Relations

• Engage with all relevant Departments on issues of the area of specialisation, as directed by the Manager
• Communicate with internal and/or external stakeholders, where required, to achieve work objectives and to maintain relationships
• Collaborate with Evaluation Foreman to contribute to the development and implementation of process improvement initiatives to enhance plant performance during shifts
• Collaborate with the maintenance department in order to ensure a world class maintenance culture is established and maintained on the plant

Compliance, Risk and Safety

• Adhere to a set plant specific Risk Management Policy and appropriate Procedures and Standards (Codes of Practice) during shifts
• Participate in pre-shift safety discussion to raise awareness and promote a safety-first mindset to maintain safety awareness of hazards and behaviours and reduce incidents
• Participate in relevant and necessary training to ensure consistent adherence to safety guidelines all the time to ensure
• Maintain good housekeeping in area of accountability in line with safety standards and procedures
• Maintain a proactive approach to all safety protocols by creating awareness of hazards and behaviour in order to adhere to compliance to minimise risk of accidents and injuries within the plant
• Participate in collaborative efforts to adhere to and execute drills and escape procedures in case of emergencies and operational requirements to mitigate risks and fatalities

Qualifications:

• Grade 12/ NQF Level 4 (Maths & Science)
• National Diploma in Chemical Engineering, Metallurgical Engineering or Chemistry or working towards P1/P2 Experiential training

Job-specific experience:

• One year's experience as an Operator in a metallurgical process operation including PGM flotation
• Previous R&D experience with Metallurgical Test works (Advantageous)
• Experience in mass and energy balances

Inherent requirements

Must be medically fit

Closing Date: 17 October 2025

Firebird Tours is a travel company that organizes upscale tours all over the world (mainly Europe). We are now hiring for a position of R&D Team Lead. In this position you will have multiple functions which are important for the company and its customers. Basically speaking you will lead day by day the team of people organizing the trips for our customers. It will include daily report management making sure deadlines are met and bookings made in time, supporting the team with balancing the workload and providing proper advice. We are looking for an ambitious, hardworking and responsible person who is ready to join a vibrant international company and plan the best travel journeys.

Job functions:

• Product Development: Improve our travel product by researching market trends, customer preferences, and analyzing competitor offerings.
• Team Management: Monitor daily team performance, set expectations, provide guidance, and address challenges to meet organizational goals.
• Quality Control: Establish and maintain quality standards to ensure products/services meet specifications and customer expectations.
• Incident Management: Oversee resolution of operational incidents, log issues, and coordinate with teams for timely resolution while keeping stakeholders informed.
• Intra-department Communication: Facilitate effective communication within the department through regular meetings and collaboration with marketing, sales, operations, and customer service.

Requirements for the Position:

• Good knowledge of English.
• 2+ years of experience of managing the team.
• Strong work ethics.
• Strong internet search skills.
• Strong analytical skills.

We offer:

• Work in a friendly, young and ambitious team ready to change management.
• Career opportunities.
• Remote work, 5 days a week (Mon-Fri).
• Unique working experience in the best travel company.
• Ability to grow and level up skills in a dynamically developing team.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: From R26 000,00 per month

Work Location: Remote

This position will conduct research in the field of emulsifiers andemulsion explosives. Will be responsible for evaluating alternative raw materials, characterisation and optimisation of current products,development of new products as well as continuous improvement projects as assigned.

• Degree or B. Tech in Chemistry

• 3 years demonstrated experience as a Chemist in a production environment
• 1 year working experience in an Explosives industry

Responsible for research projects

• Effective planning of research projects
• Execution of research projects
• Making sure that data is accurately recorded in accordance with guidelines

Conduct chemical analyses

• Perform daily routine tests and product development tests
• Reporting and presenting results

Technical support to manufacturing plants

• Play an active role in service, product and process innovation
• Interpretation of test results
• Make recommendations to R & D Manager, as well as plant and production management

Adherence to SHERQ principles

• Good housekeeping and cleaning of laboratory
• Ensuring that health and safety standards are adhered to

• Proven written and verbal communication skills
• Knowledge of the production processes
• Attention to detail
• Able to control own time management
• Initiative and Tenacity
• Able to respond positively to changing requirements and pressures
• Able to communicate and deal with production managers and personnel, as well as customers at all levels

Overview
About PepsiCo
PepsiCo products are enjoyed by consumers more than one billion times a day in more than 200 countries and territories around the world. PepsiCo generated more than $79 billion in net revenue in 2021, driven by a complementary beverage and convenient foods portfolio that includes Lay's, Doritos, Cheetos, Gatorade, Pepsi-Cola, Mountain Dew, Quaker, and SodaStream. PepsiCo's product portfolio includes a wide range of enjoyable foods and beverages, including many iconic brands that generate more than $1 billion each in estimated.

Guiding PepsiCo is our vision to Be the Global Leader in Beverages and Convenient Foods by Winning with PepsiCo Positive (pep+). pep+ is our strategic end-to-end transformation that puts sustainability and human capital at the center of how we will create value and growth by operating within planetary boundaries and inspiring positive change for planet and people. For more information, visit

Responsibilities
What we're looking for:
To develop and implement research strategies that inform product design decisions across innovation, brand stewardship, Design to Value (DtV), and portfolio transformation initiatives. This role will leverage both global and local sensory and consumer research capabilities, integrating product insights and deep technical expertise to support the Foods and Beverages R&D organization in delivering consumer-relevant, insight-driven solutions.

• Collaborate with cross-functional stakeholdersto implement the global Sensory and Consumer Experience (EXPerience) innovation research roadmap, ensuring local alignment with the Technical Stage Gate (TSG) process. Accountability Type: Influence
• Develop integrated research plansthat span Gates 2 to 4 of the TSG process, using strategic thinking to align key stakeholders across R&D, Consumer Insights, and Marketing. Accountability Type: Influence
• Localize and apply global EXPerience processes and protocolsto drive efficiency in terms of time and cost across supported teams. Accountability Type: Consult / Execute
• Support the implementation and advocacy of the EXPerience team's vision and missionin collaboration with the EXPerience Manager. Accountability Type: Influence
• Deliver actionable insightsthrough the interpretation of both qualitative and quantitative consumer research, supporting current and future R&D initiatives. Effectively communicate implications to senior leadership, including up to LG2 executives. Accountability Type: Consult / Execute
• Mentor and coach EXPerience team membersto build capability and promote best-in-class research practices aligned with broader business priorities. Accountability Type: Influence
• Coordinate with EXPerience peers and external research partners to ensure appropriate resource allocation, test design, and deployment in line with best practice standards.

Qualifications
What will qualify you for the role
:

• An advanced degree (Master's or PhD) in a relevant scientific discipline such as Psychology, Food Science, or Sensory Science is preferred, with a strong theoretical foundation in test design, research methodologies, and statistical analysis techniques.
• Relevant work experience in sensory or consumer research/insights, ideally within a fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) environment. Experience expectations may vary based on academic background (e.g., 2-3 years with a Master's degree, 5+ years with a Bachelor's degree).
• In-depth knowledge of product testing methodologies, with demonstrated expertise in both qualitative and quantitative research methods, as well as sensory research and panel management.
• Proven ability to identify and implement emerging consumer science methodologies, with a forward-looking approach to innovation in research practices.
• Strong understanding of the broader business context, with the ability to apply both technical and commercial knowledge to support strategic decision-making.

"PepsiCo is an Equal Opportunity Employer in line with the Employment Equity Act"

R&D Laboratory Manager
Midrand | Market-related salary + 6% provident fund contribution | 8am - 5pm hours

About Our Client
Our client is a growing specialist in the design, development, and supply of flavours and colours to the food and beverage industry. With a focus on creativity, technical excellence, and collaborative partnerships, the company is building a reputation as a trusted provider of customised solutions. They offer a fast-paced environment where innovative professionals can make a real impact and grow into senior leadership roles.

The Role: R&D Laboratory Manager
This role leads the laboratory team in the execution of flavour and colour R&D, ensuring timely, client-focused delivery of innovative solutions. The successful candidate will play a strategic role in managing projects, mentoring staff, and shaping the companys product development capabilities.

Key Responsibilities

• Minimum 5 years experience in an R&D or laboratory management role

• Develop and implement flavour and colour development strategies and projects

• Manage multiple client briefs from concept to delivery

• Translate client briefs into actionable development guidelines

• Lead flavour evaluation, stability trials, and troubleshooting within the lab

• Mentor and guide junior staff to enhance team capabilities

• Monitor trends and consumer preferences to inform innovation

• Oversee laboratory operations, consumables, stock, and protocols

• Collaborate with management, QC, sales, and technical teams to align development goals

• Report monthly on laboratory progress, resources, and efficiency

About You

• Degree in Chemistry, Food Science, or related field

• Management qualification advantageous

• Proven experience managing R&D or laboratory teams

• Strong leadership and mentoring skills

• Knowledge of flavour evaluation and gustatory/olfactive analysis an advantage

• Understanding of the flavour and colour market

• Excellent project management and communication skills

• Ability to work across diverse teams and resolve technical challenges