Research Development Officer

Location: Lae, Papua New Guinea
Reports To: New Product Manager & Technical Manager
Application Deadline: Friday, 10th October 2025

Paradise Foods is seeking an enthusiastic and motivated Research Development Officer to join our team in Lae. This is an excellent opportunity for someone passionate about product innovation and development within the fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) sector.

The Role

As Research Development Officer, you will support the formulation, testing, and evaluation of new and existing products. This role requires hands-on lab and factory work, detailed record-keeping, and collaboration across multiple departments to bring new product concepts to life.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop and refine product formulations as directed by the New Product Manager or Technical Manager.
• Conduct sensory evaluations, quality control checks, and stability tests on lab and factory trial samples.
• Support the assessment of new ingredients, packaging materials, and processes.
• Carry out lab bench and factory-scale trials to establish standards for new or improved products.
• Maintain accurate records of R&D trials, formulations, and test results throughout each project lifecycle.
• Collaborate with production, quality control, engineering, procurement, finance, sales, and marketing teams during R&D and NPD project execution.
• Ensure compliance with food safety standards, Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), and quality systems such as HACCP, ISO, and FSSC.
• Manage daily and monthly calibration of lab equipment and maintain logs for chemical and equipment use.
• Prepare detailed R&D and trial reports, along with product and process specifications for review and approval.

About You

Qualifications and Experience:

• A degree in Applied Science, Chemistry, or Food Technology.
• 1–2 years’ experience in a similar role within an FMCG environment is an advantage.
• Strong foundational knowledge of food processing, ingredients, microbiology, and regulatory standards.

Skills and Attributes:

• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and organisational skills.
• Proficient in Microsoft Word, Excel, and other MS Office applications.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple tasks under pressure.
• High attention to detail and technical competency.
• Excellent communication, teamwork, and interpersonal skills.
• Competency in laboratory techniques and safety procedures.

How to Apply

To apply, please submit a written application, along with your resume, certificates, and references no later than Friday, 10th October 2025 to:

The HR Coordinator
Paradise Foods
PO Box 347
Lae, Papua New Guinea
Email: recruitment@paradisefoods.com.pg