PLEASE NOTE THIS IS AN OFFICE BASED ROLE-----> Located in San Ġwann / Malta
*** The Candidate Needs to Be Able to Relocate*** Relocation Support Given---------------------------------------------------------------
Category Product Technologist – Confectionery
Overview A leading global food and beverage manufacturer is expanding its portfolio to include a new range of confectionery products. To support this growth, we are seeking an experienced and creative Category Product Technologist with deep expertise in confectionery formulation and process development — particularly in soft candies, gummies, and marshmallows. The successful candidate will play a pivotal role in the research, design, and scale-up of innovative confectionery products, translating ideas into high-quality, commercially viable solutions that meet consumer expectations across international markets. This position works closely with cross-functional teams including Operations, Quality, and Marketing.
Key Responsibilities Product Innovation & Development Lead and contribute to the development of new confectionery products — soft candy, gummies, and marshmallows — from concept through to launch. Conduct category and competitor benchmarking, sensory profiling, and ingredient assessments to identify product opportunities. Generate and evaluate innovative product concepts based on consumer and regional market trends. Develop and validate product formulations using experimental and analytical methodologies. Create and maintain product and ingredient specifications, including nutritional, sensory, and process parameters. Ensure all developments comply with GMP, Food Safety, and Quality Assurance standards. Project Management Independently manage multiple product development projects of medium complexity. Lead cross-functional project teams to deliver products on time, within scope, and to agreed quality standards. Communicate progress, risks, and key findings effectively to senior R&D management. Ensure smooth project handover to Operations through clear documentation, reports, and technical transfer. Technical & Process Support Conduct lab, kitchen, and pilot-scale trials to validate formulations and processes. Support factory scale-up activities, troubleshooting technical issues during production. Initiate and oversee stability studies related to formulation and packaging changes. Contribute to continuous improvement of formulation methods, ingredient performance, and process efficiency. Continuous Improvement & Quality Approve quality control samples and ensure consistent product performance. Drive product improvement initiatives through sensory benchmarking, consumer feedback, and data-driven analysis. Collaborate with suppliers and internal teams to enhance ingredient functionality and optimize cost–quality balance.
Candidate Profile Education & Experience Master’s degree (or higher) in Food Technology, Food Science, or Food Engineering.5+ years’ experience in product development within the confectionery sector — ideally focused on soft candy, gummies, or marshmallow technologies. PhD in a related field will be considered an advantage. Technical Expertise Comprehensive understanding of confectionery formulations, ingredient interactions, and processing techniques. Strong knowledge of flavour chemistry, including stability, generation, and sensory performance. Proficiency in experimental design, analytical testing, and data interpretation. Familiarity with industrial-scale confectionery processes, equipment, and technologies. Solid grasp of food safety, GMP, and regulatory compliance requirements. Core Competencies Innovative mindset and passion for creating consumer-loved products. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills. High attention to detail and commitment to quality. Excellent sensory evaluation skills. Collaborative approach with the ability to influence cross-functional stakeholders. Strong communication, planning, and organisational capabilities. Results-driven and adaptable to a fast-paced, project-oriented environment.
Why Join Opportunity to be part of a global innovation journey in confectionery, shaping new products from concept to market. A dynamic, forward-looking environment that values creativity, scientific expertise, and personal growth. Work alongside talented professionals in food technology, flavour science, and product innovation to deliver products enjoyed worldwide.