Exciting Opportunity _R & D Manager_Beverage Company _Chennai

Role Overview:

We are seeking an innovative, hands-on R&D Manager with deep expertise in UHT and retort processing, who can take formulations from concept to shelf-ready stage. You will be the go-to person for all product innovation, formulation, stability, and ingredient optimization across our fast-growing portfolio of plant-based beverages and juices.

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Key Responsibilities

1. Product Development

•             Lead R&D for UHT-processed and retort able plant-based beverages (juices, plant milks, nutritional drinks).
•             Develop shelf-stable, clean-label formulations that deliver superior taste, texture, and nutrition.
•             Design and execute trials for flavour, texture, and product stability.

2. Ingredient Mastery

•             Select and optimize use of stabilizers, gums (e.g., gellan, guar, locust bean), emulsifiers, proteins, flavours, and sweeteners.
•             Work with ingredient and flavour houses to source innovative, clean-label and sustainable ingredients.
•             Stay updated on functional ingredient trends in the plant-based category.

3. Process Development & Optimization

•             Ensure compatibility of formulations with UHT, HTST, and retort processing technologies.
•             Collaborate with manufacturing teams to scale up from lab/pilot to commercial production.

4. Shelf-Life & Stability Testing

•             Lead shelf-life studies (microbiological, sensory, and functional testing).
•             Troubleshoot formulation challenges like phase separation, sedimentation, or flavour loss.
•             Propose preservative-free solutions when possible.

5. Regulatory & Documentation

•             Ensure all formulations are compliant with FSSAI and export regulations.
•             Maintain robust documentation of formulas, trials, and processing parameters.

6. Cross-functional Collaboration

•             Work closely with packaging, marketing, procurement, QA, and operations teams to ensure successful product launches.
•             Evaluate consumer feedback and refine products post-launch.

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Ideal Candidate Profile

Education

•             B.Tech / M.Tech / MSc in Food Technology, Dairy Science, or a related field.

Experience

•             Minimum 5+ years in R&D with plant-based, dairy-alternative, or functional beverage brands.
•             Proven experience in UHT and retort beverage product development.
•             Hands-on with stabilizers, emulsions, gums, and flavour systems.

Skills & Knowledge

•             Deep understanding of food chemistry and ingredient processing behaviour.
•             Clean-label formulation mind-set with attention to nutritional value.
•             Strong project management, documentation, and cross-functional collaboration skills.
•             Existing vendor or co-manufacturer network is a plus.

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Nice to Have

•             Experience working with Tetra Pak or similar aseptic systems.
•             Familiarity with clean-label trends, minimal processing, and natural preservation techniques.
•             Exposure to sustainable ingredient sourcing and functional superfoods.

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Why Join Us?

•             Be a pioneer in the plant-based and sustainable food revolution.
•             Work on cutting-edge product innovation with real-world impact.
•             Join a fast-paced, passionate team with a start-up mind-set and global ambitions.
•             Opportunity to lead end-to-end product creation from R&D lab to commercial success.