Research & Product Development Specialist; Dried Fruit Industry

Job Title:

Research & Product Development Specialist (Dried Fruit Industry)

Location: Hoedspruit, Limpopo
Industry: Food Technology | Dried Fruit Processing & Product Innovation
Employment Type: Full-Time
Start Date: 1 November 2025

An established and progressive fruit and vegetable pack house, specialising in dried fruit processing, is seeking an innovative and technically skilled Research & Product Development Specialist to join their team in Hoedspruit. This role is ideal for a passionate food technologist who thrives in a fast‑paced, hands‑on agri‑processing environment and is eager to transform tropical fruit into premium, world‑class dried products.

You will play a pivotal role in leading the research, development, and commercialization of new fruit‑based products — from concept creation to shelf readiness — while ensuring compliance with food safety standards and aligning innovation with market demand and sustainability goals.

• Drive new product innovation and development from idea conception to market launch.
• Conduct applied research on fruit varieties (particularly mango and tropical fruits), preservation methods, dehydration techniques, and shelf‑life optimization.
• Formulate and test value‑added fruit products such as dried fruit snacks, fruit powders, purees, and juices.
• Develop and maintain product formulations, process parameters, and production specifications.
• Perform sensory evaluations and quality assessments to ensure consistent taste, texture, and appearance.
• Identify and implement improvements in drying and packaging processes to enhance efficiency and product quality.
• Collaborate cross‑functionally with production, procurement, and marketing teams to ensure product feasibility and market alignment.
• Analyse market trends, consumer insights, and competitor products to guide innovation and product positioning.
• Research and evaluate new packaging materials and design trends to improve product presentation and sustainability.

• Ensure compliance with HACCP, food safety, and regulatory standards.
• Conduct lab testing, data analysis, and shelf‑life studies to verify product performance and safety.
• Support quality control teams in developing protocols for product consistency and traceability.
• Maintain detailed records of product trials, specifications, and ingredient sourcing.

• Assist management with procurement, logistics, and the ordering of raw materials, packaging, and production inputs for both existing and new product lines.
• Capture and manage data relating to receiving, processing, packing, and purchase orders on the inventory system.
• Support month‑end stock counts and ensure accurate data capture.
• Monitor and manage packaging material movement, usage, and stock control.
• Maintain inventory and coordinate requirements for equipment, PPE, and housekeeping supplies.
• Organise and support logistics for internal meetings, product tastings, and visiting delegations.

• Bachelor’s Degree or higher in Food Technology
  , Food Science
  , or a related discipline.
• Minimum 2–3 years’ experience in a Research & Development role, preferably within the fruit processing, beverage, or food manufacturing industry.
• Strong understanding of food formulation, sensory evaluation, and processing technologies
  .
• Proven knowledge of quality control principles
  , lab testing
  , and product stability protocols
  .
• Computer literacy with experience in data capturing
  , inventory systems
  , and reporting tools
  .
• Excellent analytical, problem‑solving, and organisational skills.
• A creative mindset with a passion for tropical fruits
  , sustainability, and product innovation.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team‑oriented production environment.

• An opportunity to influence and shape the future of premium dried fruit and tropical fruit products.
• Hands‑on involvement in cutting‑edge research and product innovation within a dynamic agri‑processing business.
• A supportive and growth‑focused workplace culture that encourages creativity and continuous improvement.
• Competitive salary
  , aligned with experience and qualifications.
• Career development opportunities in a rapidly expanding segment of the food industry.

Qualified candidates who meet the above requirements and are excited about driving innovation in the dried fruit sector are invited to submit a detailed CV and cover letter outlining their relevant experience and achievements.