Associate Scientist, Product Development – Ready-to-Drink Tea

About This Role

Join Pepsi Lipton, a dynamic and innovative joint venture between two global powerhouses, PepsiCo and Unilever, dedicated to leading the ready-to-drink (RTD) Tea segment worldwide. This venture unites the extensive beverage expertise of PepsiCo with Unilever's deep heritage in tea, creating a formidable presence in the global market. Our portfolio boasts three well-established and beloved brands: Lipton, Brisk, Pure Leaf, and the emerging Yachak, each catering to diverse consumer preferences across various regions. With a global business currently valued at an impressive 3.0 billion USD, Pepsi Lipton is not just maintaining its position but actively driving significant growth in volume and achieving double-digit increases in net revenues year over year. This robust performance is a testament to our commitment to innovation, consumer-centric product development, and strategic market penetration.

As an Associate Scientist in Product Development, you will play a pivotal role in contributing to this success by innovating and optimizing our RTD tea offerings. This is an exciting opportunity to apply your scientific knowledge and creativity within a fast-paced, global environment that spans complex and diverse regions, from the mature markets of Western Europe and the United States to the growing economies of Australia, New Zealand, and Latin America. Our markets are at different stages of development, offering unique challenges and opportunities for product customization and innovation. You will be instrumental in bringing new ideas from concept to commercialization, ensuring our products delight consumers, meet stringent quality standards, and contribute to the continued expansion of our global footprint. This permanent position offers a chance to make a tangible impact on globally recognized brands and contribute to a business that is truly at the forefront of the beverage industry.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and execute laboratory and pilot plant experiments for the development of new ready-to-drink tea products and the renovation of existing ones, focusing on flavor, stability, and nutritional profiles.
• Formulate and optimize beverage prototypes, selecting appropriate ingredients and processing parameters to achieve desired product attributes and sensory targets.
• Conduct comprehensive analytical testing on raw materials, in-process samples, and finished products to ensure quality, safety, and compliance with internal and external standards.
• Analyze and interpret experimental data, draw scientifically sound conclusions, and effectively communicate findings through detailed reports and presentations to cross-functional teams.
• Collaborate closely with Sensory, Marketing, Supply Chain, and Regulatory teams to translate consumer insights and business objectives into successful product formulations.
• Support the scale-up process from laboratory benchtop to pilot plant and full-scale commercial production, troubleshooting any technical challenges that arise.
• Stay abreast of emerging ingredient technologies, processing advancements, and consumer trends within the beverage industry to foster continuous innovation.
• Contribute to the development and maintenance of product specifications, formulas, and technical documentation.
• Adhere strictly to all safety protocols, Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs), and quality assurance standards in all research and development activities.

Requirements & Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Food Science, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a closely related scientific discipline.
• 1-3 years of progressive experience in Product Development or Research & Development within the Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) or beverage industry, with a preference for RTD tea or similar liquid categories.
• Demonstrated understanding of food chemistry, ingredient functionality, processing technologies, and sensory evaluation principles relevant to beverage formulation.
• Proven ability to design, execute, and analyze experiments effectively, utilizing strong scientific methodologies.
• Proficiency in standard laboratory techniques and instrumentation.
• Exceptional analytical and problem-solving skills, with a keen eye for detail.
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to collaborate effectively within diverse, cross-functional teams in a global matrix organization.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, capable of articulating complex scientific concepts to technical and non-technical audiences.
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously, prioritize tasks, and meet deadlines in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.

Skills & Competencies

• Product Formulation & Development
• Experimental Design & Execution
• Analytical Testing & Data Interpretation
• Cross-functional Collaboration
• Scientific Research & Innovation
• Problem-Solving & Troubleshooting
• Sensory Evaluation Fundamentals

What We Offer

This is a permanent contract opportunity with Pepsi Lipton, offering significant career stability and the chance to grow within a globally recognized organization. We provide a highly competitive salary of USD 131,331.58, reflective of the expertise and impact we expect from this role. Beyond compensation, you will be part of a vibrant, innovative culture that encourages continuous learning and professional development. As a joint venture of PepsiCo and Unilever, we offer the unique advantage of exposure to two world-class companies, providing unparalleled opportunities for career advancement, skill enhancement, and the chance to contribute to iconic global brands. We believe in fostering an inclusive environment where every employee can thrive and make a meaningful difference.

• Permanent Contract
• Competitive Salary: USD 131,331.58
• Opportunity to work with globally recognized brands (Lipton, Brisk, Pure Leaf, Yachak)
• Exposure to a dynamic global business environment
• Career growth and development opportunities

How to Apply

If you are a passionate and innovative Associate Scientist looking to make a significant impact in the ready-to-drink tea segment, we encourage you to apply. Please submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your relevant experience and why you are the ideal candidate for this role. Join us at Pepsi Lipton and help shape the future of beverages!