Product Development Engineer Job Vacancy in Maseru, Lesotho – Food & Beverage Manufacturing

Job Description

Position:Product Development Engineer

Company:Nestlé Lesotho

Location:Maseru, Lesotho

Experience:3-5 years

Education:Bachelor’s degree in Food Science, Chemical Engineering, or related field

Employment Type:Full-time

Industry:Food & Beverage Manufacturing

Department:Research & Development

Salary:SSP 250,000 – 350,000 per month

Vacancies:1

Company Overview

Nestlé Lesotho is a leading subsidiary of the global food and nutrition powerhouse Nestlé, operating in Lesotho for over two decades. The company is dedicated to delivering high‑quality dairy, coffee, and culinary products that meet local tastes while adhering to Nestlé’s worldwide standards of safety, sustainability, and nutrition. As part of Nestlé’s commitment to growth in Africa, Nestlé Lesotho invests heavily in modern manufacturing facilities, research collaborations with local universities, and community development programs. This vibrant environment offers a unique platform for professionals seeking to make a tangible impact on the food supply chain in Lesotho. The organization continuously seeks innovative talent to drive product excellence, making it a top destination for Lesotho Jobs and a catalyst for Career Opportunities in Lesotho.

Job Overview

The Product Development Engineer will join the Research & Development team to lead the design, testing, and launch of new food and beverage products tailored to the Lesotho market. Reporting to the R&D Manager, you will collaborate with cross‑functional teams including Marketing, Quality Assurance, Production, and Supply Chain to ensure that each product meets consumer expectations, regulatory requirements, and Nestlé’s stringent quality standards. This role is central to Nestlé Lesotho’s strategy of expanding its portfolio with locally relevant innovations, thereby supporting Employment in Lesotho and strengthening the company’s market position. For more information about Nestlé’s global initiatives, visit https://lesothojobsearch.com/.

Key Responsibilities

• Conceptualize, develop, and pilot new food and beverage products that align with local taste preferences and nutritional guidelines.
• Conduct feasibility studies, cost analyses, and risk assessments for each product idea.
• Lead formulation experiments, scale‑up trials, and sensory evaluation sessions.
• Coordinate with Quality Assurance to ensure compliance with Lesotho food safety regulations and Nestlé internal standards.
• Prepare detailed technical documentation, product specifications, and regulatory submission packages.
• Collaborate with Marketing to create product positioning, packaging concepts, and launch plans.
• Monitor post‑launch performance, gather consumer feedback, and drive continuous improvement.

Required Skills

• Strong knowledge of food science principles, ingredient functionality, and processing technologies.
• Proficiency in statistical analysis tools (e.g., Minitab, JMP) and product development software.
• Excellent problem‑solving abilities and a data‑driven mindset.
• Effective communication skills for cross‑functional collaboration.
• Project management experience with the ability to meet tight timelines.
• Familiarity with Lesotho food regulations and international standards (e.g., Codex, ISO 22000).

Education

A Bachelor’s degree in Food Science, Chemical Engineering, Nutrition, or a closely related discipline is required. A Master’s degree or relevant certifications (e.g., Certified Food Scientist) are advantageous.

Experience

Minimum of 3‑5 years of hands‑on experience in product development within the food and beverage industry, preferably with exposure to dairy or beverage categories. Experience working in an international corporate environment is a plus.

Salary

The position offers a competitive salary range of SSP 250,000 to 350,000 per month, commensurate with experience and qualifications. Performance‑based bonuses and benefits are included.

Benefits

• Comprehensive health insurance covering employee and dependents.
• Retirement savings plan with company matching contributions.
• Generous paid leave, including annual, sick, and parental leave.
• Employee assistance program and wellness initiatives.
• Opportunities for international assignments and professional networking.

Training

• On‑boarding program covering Nestlé’s global standards, safety protocols, and company culture.
• Continuous learning through internal Nestlé Academy courses and external certifications.
• Mentorship from senior R&D leaders and access to cross‑functional workshops.

Working Environment

Nestlé Lesotho provides a collaborative, inclusive, and safety‑first workplace. Employees work in state‑of‑the‑art laboratories, pilot plants, and modern office spaces equipped with the latest technology. The company promotes a culture of innovation, where ideas are encouraged and recognized.

Application Process

Interested candidates should submit their updated CV and a cover letter outlining their relevant experience through the online portal on the Nestlé Careers page. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, and shortlisted candidates will be contacted for an initial interview followed by technical assessments.

Equal Opportunity Statement

Nestlé Lesotho is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees, regardless of gender, race, religion, age, disability, or sexual orientation. Our hiring practices support Hiring in Lesotho and aim to reflect the communities we serve.