R&D Specialist - Packaging | Cabuyao/Marilao

JOB OBJECTIVE

• To provide technical support and assistance to one product category per instruction, in the delivery of identified packaging initiatives according to defined and agreed strategies, steps, and measures for product, package, and/or process development requirements.

• To fulfill the requirements of the Food Safety Management System.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

A. Communication

• Coordinates and communicates with respective business partners, as aligned with superior, all technical updates related to projects handled and restricted to own category.

B. Accountabilities

• Contributes to the development of technical strategies by providing technical information including but not limited to the conduct of technological research, initial studies, material qualification and testing, in support to the product category assigned.

• Provides data and information to decision-makers in setting the strategy for the team or function.

• Information gathering (trends and recent technological developments) to support concept development.

• Prepares basic plans for own project activities assigned budget, timelines and resource requirements for the product category assigned. Prepares basic plans for own project activities assigned budget, timelines and resource requirements for the product category assigned.

• Documents all technical requirements related to product manual, product registration and other regulatory requirements, per instruction of the superior.

• Applies the basic and specialized tests required in the conduct of product, package and/or process development and gathers all pertinent information, analyzes, and interprets data and communicates such information to the superior.

• Participates in packaging assessment/reviews as against government regulations and corporate standards for product, package, process, product safety and quality.

• Searches for emerging technologies and market-based trends in the category assigned and its related categories and understands possible implications.

• Conducts material qualification and provides analysis and recommendation based on results.

• Participates in technical reviews within R&D/QA and Manufacturing on projects involved with.

• Performs other tasks as assigned.

C. Authority

• Technical authority on projects being handled related to packaging development requirements.

D. Category-Specific Technical Responsibilities (Generic)

• In addition to the general duties above, the R&D Specialist is responsible for supporting product, process, and packaging initiatives for the assigned category.

1. Breading Mix & Flavor Mixes

• Supports packaging trials for breading and flavoring systems to ensure consistency, taste, and performance.

• Assists in material testing, qualification, and batch trials under supervision of senior R&D personnel.

• Documents technical observations, test results, and pilot-scale learnings.

• Supports troubleshooting during small-scale and pilot production runs.

2. Material Science & Technology

• Conducts research and testing on packaging materials and process technology.

• Supports the evaluation of process performance and packaging solutions.

• Provides technical data and analysis to guide project planning and decision-making.

• Assists senior R&D staff in integrating new material and technology solutions into packaging development.

3. Meal Finishers – NPDs

• Supports new packaging development projects for meal finisher innovations under guidance of R&D Manager/Sr. Manager.

• Conducts small-scale trials, gathers experimental data, and provides analysis for feasibility and quality.

• Prepares documentation for development activities and pilot results.

• Provides technical support during project handover for commercialization readiness.

4. Dressings and Material Quality Packaging

• Assists in packaging and process development of dressings and sauces to meet quality and regulatory standards.

• Supports technical evaluation of packaging materials for compatibility, shelf life, and safety.

• Conducts material qualification, testing, and documentation of results.

• Collaborates with QA, Manufacturing, and Regulatory teams to ensure compliance and technical integrity.

Standard

• The R&D Specialist applies technical rigor, data-driven analysis, and careful execution across all assigned categories.

• Assignments may rotate based on business needs, requiring flexibility across product platforms.

• Provides technical support, testing, and documentation while following the direction of supervisors and senior R&D staff.

FUNCTIONAL KNOWLEDGE/ SKILL REQUIREMENTS

Education/ Course

• Degree in BS Packaging, BS Food Technology, Chemistry, BS Chem or any Science/Engineering course

Experience/ Expertise

• No minimum required work experience. Preferably belongs to the top 10% of the class.

• With strong leadership skills, excellent communication skills

Certification/Licensure Requirements

• Complies to 5S, 6S, GMP, HACCP and FSMS requirements.

Other Technical Skills Required

• Proficient in the use of the basic MS Office Application

• Digital savvy with good technical communication skills

• Understands and applies design strategies in the area of formula/package/process development.

• Capability and knowledge of own work area to share technical skills with others.

• Good understanding of how own department adds value to the organization.

• Basic understanding of the financial details.

• Developed communication skills, both oral and written, to exchange information even outside of the department.

• Team oriented; in-depth understanding of how own area integrates with sub-functions.

• Entrepreneurial mindset.

• With good presentation skills.

• Basic knowledge in culinary and nutrition is an advantage.