Job Description

Job Title: Food Technologist Reports To: R&D Head / Quality Head / Technical Director Employment Type: Full-time Job Summary We are looking for an innovative and detail-oriented Food Technologist to join our FMCG team. This role involves developing and improving food products, ensuring compliance with safety and regulatory standards, and enhancing production efficiency. The successful candidate will work closely with cross-functional teams, including marketing, supply chain, production, and regulatory affairs, to drive food innovation and quality excellence. The ideal candidate should have a deep understanding of food science, processing techniques, ingredient functionality, and industry trends. Additionally, they should be able to troubleshoot manufacturing issues, conduct market research, and develop cost-effective formulations without compromising quality. Key Responsibilities 1. Product Development & Innovation Develop new food and beverage products from concept to commercialization based on consumer trends and market demands. Formulate improved recipes that optimize taste, texture, and nutritional value. Conduct pilot plant trials and lab-scale experiments to validate formulations before mass production. Identify and explore clean-label ingredients, functional additives, and natural preservatives for product enhancement. Collaborate with the marketing team to create claims and messaging based on scientific validation (e.g., High Protein, “Sugar-Free,” “Probiotic,” etc.). 2. Quality Assurance & Food Safety Implement and maintain food safety and quality management systems such as HACCP, ISO 22000, BRC, FSSC, and GMP . Ensure strict adherence to FSSAI, FDA, and international regulatory guidelines . Conduct sensory evaluations, microbial testing, and stability studies to assess product quality. Investigate customer complaints, root causes of quality defects, and implement corrective actions . 3. Regulatory Compliance & Labeling Ensure products meet local and international food regulations . Prepare technical documents related to product specifications, nutritional labeling, and ingredient declarations. Work with legal and compliance teams to review product labels, claims, and marketing materials . Stay updated with regulatory changes affecting food product development. 4. Process Optimization & Manufacturing Support Work closely with the production and engineering teams to optimize manufacturing processes for efficiency and cost reduction. Identify process improvements to enhance shelf life, texture, and packaging stability . Conduct scale-up trials and technology transfer from R&D to production. Troubleshoot manufacturing issues related to ingredient interactions, batch inconsistencies, and processing conditions. 5. Market Research & Competitive Analysis Conduct market analysis to identify gaps, emerging trends, and consumer needs. Benchmark products against competitor offerings and identify areas for differentiation. Attend trade shows, conferences, and technical forums to stay updated with industry advancements. 6. Raw Material Sourcing & Supplier Coordination Work with procurement teams to identify and evaluate new suppliers . Ensure raw materials meet quality standards and specifications . Test and approve alternative ingredients to optimize cost and sustainability. 7. Sustainability & Innovation Support initiatives for sustainable and eco-friendly food production . Research biodegradable packaging, upcycled ingredients, and carbon footprint reduction strategies. Work on reducing food waste through better formulation and processing techniques. Key Requirements Education & Qualifications Bachelor’s/Master’s degree in Food Technology, Food Science, Dairy Technology, Biochemistry, Nutrition, or a related field . Additional certifications in HACCP, FSSC 22000, Six Sigma, or Sensory Analysis are a plus. Experience 2–7 years of experience in FMCG, food manufacturing, or a related industry . Proven experience in product development, formulation, and quality control . Hands-on experience in food processing, shelf-life studies, and ingredient functionality . Technical Skills Strong knowledge of food chemistry, microbiology, and sensory evaluation techniques . Proficiency in NPD tools, experimental design, and statistical analysis . Familiarity with lab testing equipment, analytical instruments, and pilot-scale production . Knowledge of food allergens, preservatives, emulsifiers, stabilizers, and functional ingredients . Ability to create technical reports, process flow diagrams, and standard operating procedures (SOPs) . Soft Skills Strong analytical and problem-solving skills . Excellent communication and collaboration skills to work with cross-functional teams. Detail-oriented mindset with a strong focus on accuracy and compliance. Ability to multitask and manage multiple projects simultaneously. Creative mindset to drive food innovation and product differentiation. Preferred Qualifications Experience in specific food categories such as bakery, dairy, confectionery, beverages, snacks, or plant-based products . Knowledge of alternative proteins, probiotics, prebiotics, and functional foods . Familiarity with artificial intelligence (AI) and automation in food processing .