R&D Process Development Assistant Manager

Job Responsibilities

1. Lead the development of manufacturing processes for new products, from laboratory stage through to commercial production.
2. Manage process development projects end-to-end — defining timelines, resources, and trial budgets, and ensuring delivery on time and within cost targets.
3. Execute scale-up and process validation and ensure effective technology transfer from R&D to Manufacturing.
4. Design, run, and evaluate trials in the pilot plant and on production lines, and analyze trial data to produce implementation recommendations.
5. Optimize process parameters to improve quality, yield, productivity, and cost efficiency, including identifying and reducing process losses.
6. Work with Engineering to assess new equipment or technology requirements, and support installation, commissioning, and qualification of new production lines.
7. Prepare process specifications, manufacturing instructions, SOPs, and technical documentation, and ensure knowledge transfer to production teams.
8. Investigate process-related problems and deliver data-driven corrective and preventive solutions.
9. Ensure all developed processes comply with FSSC 22000, GMP, HACCP, and applicable regulations.
10. Support the first commercial run and monitor process performance post-implementation until stable handover to Manufacturing.
11. Lead cross-functional project teams across Manufacturing, Quality, Engineering, Supply Chain, Procurement, and Marketing, and report project progress and results to the R&D Manager and relevant stakeholders.

Job Requirements

1. Minimum bachelor's degree (S1) in Food Technology, Chemical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Biotechnology, or a related field.
2. Minimum 3–5 years of experience in R&D Process Development, Process Engineering, Product Development, or Manufacturing within the food and beverage industry, including experience leading process development or improvement projects.
3. Solid understanding of scale-up, process validation, and technology transfer.
4. Knowledge of GMP, HACCP, Food Safety Management Systems, and Lean Manufacturing principles is an advantage.
5. Strong problem-solving skills with a scientific approach; familiarity with statistical tools such as DOE, SPC, or Minitab is preferred.
6. Strong project management, communication, and cross-functional coordination skills — able to drive results across departments without direct authority.
7. Good command of English, both written and spoken.
8. Willing to conduct trials in production areas and to travel for business as required.