Westfalia Fruit, a leading multinational supplier of fresh fruit and related value-added products to global markets. Through our vertically-integrated supply chain we grow, source, ripen, pack, process and market quality avocadoes & fresh produce – 365 days a year & across the globe.

With the largest avocado-growing footprint in the world, we are recognised as the leading #avoexperts and considered as the supplier of choice to both retail & wholesale customers whom we serve from sales offices in the UK, Europe, North America, Latin America & Southern Africa.

Westfalia Fruit Estate, situated in Limpopo, Tzaneen, has a vacancy for a suitably qualified and experienced: New Products Development Technologist

Purpose of the role:

To support the Research & Development (R&D) department in aligning with and achieving the business strategy through systematic R&D processes and innovation. As a service-oriented function, R&D plays a critical role in supporting various business units and departments by driving product development, quality improvement, and compliance.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop new products in line with business objectives.
• Execute sample requests for internal and external customers.
• Lead and conduct factory trials to ensure product viability.
• Perform sensory evaluations on products. • Conduct shelf-life studies and report findings.
• Ensure proper documentation and control of R&D procedures.
• Order necessary equipment and services for R&D operations. • Apply knowledge of food microbiology, food chemistry, and HACCP principles.
• Support certification processes, including BRC compliance.

Education:

• Degree in Food Sciences

Experience:

• Minimum of 2 years of experience in a similar role within the fruit processing industry (advantageous).

Skills:

• Advanced proficiency in MS Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) with expert-level skills in Word and PowerPoint.
• Strong report writing and documentation skills.
• Excellent communication and presentation abilities.

Behavioural Competencies:

• High commitment to accuracy and quality.
• Strong attention to detail. • Proactive, energetic, and driven.
• Ability to perform under pressure and handle stress effectively.
• High level of integrity and ethical standards
• Team-oriented with the ability to work independently.
• Flexible and adaptable in a dynamic environment.
• Solution-focused mindset.

The Company offers a Total Guaranteed Remuneration Package, which comprises a provident fund, insured benefits, medical aid, and an option to structure an annual bonus.

Closing date for applications will be 9 April 2025

NB: Should you not receive correspondence 01 May 2025, please regard your application as being unsuccessful