R&D Specialist – Dairy & Juice Industry

This position is based in Iraq. Please apply only if you are willing to relocate to Iraq.Salary range: $2500 - $3000Job Purpose:To lead and support innovation, process optimization, and continuous improvement in the development of dairy and juice products, ensuring alignment with market trends, regulatory compliance, and operational excellence.Key Responsibilities:1. New Product DevelopmentProduct Formulation: Develops and customizes innovative formulations for milk, fermented dairy, juices, and functional beverages aligned with market trends (e.g., health-conscious, clean label, fortified products).Pilot Trials & Scaling: Designs and executes laboratory and pilot-scale trials to optimize recipes for flavour, texture, nutritional profile, and shelf life prior to full-scale production.2. Process OptimizationEnhances production processes for efficiency, cost reduction, and product consistency.Evaluates and implements advanced processing technologies such as UHT, pasteurization, homogenization, fortification, and aseptic packaging solutions.3. Quality Assurance & Regulatory ComplianceEnsures product compliance with national and international standards (e.g., Iraqi Food Safety Standards, Codex Alimentarius).Collaborates with QA/QC teams to define quality specifications and resolve product deviations or non-conformities.4. Ingredient & Supplier ManagementSources, tests, and qualifies raw materials, cultures, enzymes, and additives for functional and sensory performance.Conducts technical assessments of potential suppliers to ensure quality, reliability, and alignment with innovation goals.5. Market & Consumer Insights IntegrationAnalysis consumer feedback and market trends to refine products or adapt existing offerings.Supports marketing teams with technical insights for product positioning and claims.6. Cross-Functional CollaborationPartners with production, quality, marketing, supply chain, and regulatory teams to ensure seamless product launches and effective scale-up.Participates in cross-departmental innovation projects and continuous improvement initiatives.7. Continuous Improvement & DocumentationDrives ongoing improvements in product yield, sustainability, shelf life, and cost-effectiveness through process and ingredient innovation.Maintains thorough documentation of formulations, trials, procedures, and change controls in accordance with ISO standards and internal policies.Qualifications & Skills:Bachelor's degree in food science, Dairy Technology, Biotechnology, or related field; master's preferred.3+ years of experience in R&D within the dairy and/juice industry.Strong knowledge of food processing technologies and ingredient functionalities.Familiarity with regulatory and labelling standards in Iraq and international markets.Excellent analytical, documentation, and project management skills.Team player with strong communication and cross-functional collaboration capabilities.