Senior Developer : Full Stack Java / Spring - Contract Role

Purpose of the Role: Lead the development of scalable customer formulations and apply functional food ingredients across Dairy, Beverages, Confectionery, Cereals, and Culinary sectors.

Manage customer projects, including costings, while reporting to the R&D Manager.

Provide technical support, collaborate with sales, and drive knowledge sharing, training, and promotion of global partners in Dairy, Fats & Oils, and Flavours.

Support customers and the sales team across Southern and East Africa while contributing to innovative food solutions.

Key Responsibilities

1. New Product Development
   • Oversee trials, ensuring raw material availability and full traceability of specifications.
   • Compile Technical Data Sheets, Certificates of Conformance, and Nutritional Information.
   • Develop new product formulations and costings.
   • Ensure project deadlines are met.
   • Test and approve new raw materials.
   • Translate laboratory formulations into technical batch cards for production.
   • Oversee scaling up from laboratory to production while maintaining product quality.
2. Research
   • Focus on new product development in Dairy, Beverages, Confectionery, Culinary, Flavourings, Nutraceuticals, and Novel Ingredients.
   • Write reports, summaries, and protocols for new product development.
   • Provide technical support to Sales, Quality, and Production Departments.
   • Stay updated on industry trends, technologies, and legislation.
3. System Implementation & Maintenance
   • Compile, review, and maintain Standard Operating Procedures and laboratory documentation.
   • Ensure proper management of laboratory equipment and analysis.
   • Oversee loading and maintenance of new raw materials and products.
4. Human Resources
   • Foster a positive and collaborative work environment within the R&D team.
   • Upskill staff through knowledge sharing and training.
   • Maintain a respectful and motivational attitude towards all personnel.
5. Financial
   • Optimize cost of sales through value engineering of existing products.
   • Minimize costs for new product development.

Qualifications, Experience, and Job Requirements

• Strong practical and theoretical knowledge of food science and chemistry.
• Tertiary qualification (Degree / Diploma) in Food Technology or Food Science.
• Years experience in R&D within food applications (Dairy, Beverage, Confectionery, Culinary, Flavourings, Nutraceuticals, or Novel Ingredients beneficial).
• Project management experience is an advantage.
• Ability to work independently while aligning with broader business goals.
• Proficiency in MS Office Suite.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills (English and Afrikaans).
• Willingness to travel occasionally within and beyond the region.
• Valid drivers license and own reliable transport required.
• Comfortable tasting a variety of food and beverages.

Skills and Competencies

• Logical thinker with a hands-on, problem-solving approach.
• Self-motivated, detail-oriented, and able to meet deadlines with minimal supervision.
• Highly organised with strong multitasking and prioritisation skills.
• Sense of urgency and keen attention to detail in trial planning and follow-ups.
• Team player with a positive and motivating attitude.
• Strong planning and problem-solving abilities.
• Hardworking, dedicated, and energetic.