R&D Executive (PrimaBaguz)

Job description

PrimaBaguz, established in 1987, is a Malaysian manufacturer renowned for its high-quality halal meat products consisting of frankfurters & sausages, cold-cuts, gourmet soups and sauces, meatballs and patties. Since 2020, it has been part of Johnsonville, a leading processed meat company from Wisconsin, USA. This acquisition strengthens Johnsonville’s foothold in Southeast Asia and enables access to global foodservice clients such as quick-service restaurants and HORECA services. Johnsonville aims to utilize PrimaBaguz’s halal expertise to expand into growing markets in Asia and the Middle East. At PrimaBaguz, we believe our people are the core of everything we do. We create an environment where our members can learn and grow using our business as a platform to develop talent. Position Overview This role is responsible for executing and supporting research and development activities for new and existing food products in accordance with the Food Safety Management System (FSMS) under ISO 22000 and FSSC 22000. This role is designed for an Executive level and involves product formulation, trials, validation, documentation, and system costing. The position ensures food safety, quality, Halal, and regulatory compliance while working closely with cross-functional teams to support product commercialization, consistency, and continuous improvement under the guidance of the Head of Culinology. Responsibilities Execute product development and improvement activities for assigned projects in compliance with ISO 22000, FSSC 22000, Halal, and applicable regulatory requirements. Support hazard identification and food safety risk assessment during product formulation and process changes in line with HACCP principles. Ensure all R&D activities are carried out in accordance with approved SOPs and FSMS requirements under supervision. Conduct formulation trials, cooking trials, and product evaluations to ensure food safety, quality, and functional performance requirements are met. Perform sensory evaluations, benchmarking activities, and basic shelf-life studies as required. Prepare, maintain, and update complete R&D documentation, including formulations, product specifications, validation records, and design changes documentation. Ensure accurate and timely updates of BOM, and system costing to support traceability and cost control. Coordinate with the Purchasing Department to source and evaluate raw materials in accordance with approved supplier, food safety, and Halal requirements. Support production trials, scale-up, and commercialization activities to ensure products meet approved specifications and food safety controls. Participate in internal and external audits, corrective actions, and continuous improvement initiatives related to R&D and food safety. Participate as a member of the Food Safety Team when required, supporting risk assessment, verification, and validation activities. Ensure full compliance with hygiene, sanitation, and workplace safety requirements at all times. Support customer visits, audits, cooking demonstrations, exhibitions, and product presentations when required. Complete assigned tasks within timelines and priorities set by the Head of Culinology. Perform any other duties as assigned in support of departmental objectives and the FSMS. Education Degree in Food Science, Food Technology, Culinology, Culinary or equivalent disciplines. Experience Minimum of 2–3 years’ experience in Research and Development within the food manufacturing industry. Knowledge or hands-on experience in food science, meat processing, or frozen food manufacturing is an added advantage. Experience in Halal food product development and Halal compliance requirements is preferred. Skills Good command of written and spoken English and Bahasa Malaysia. Working knowledge of HACCP, ISO 22000, and FSSC 22000 standards and requirements. Sound understanding of culinary fundamentals, food processing, and production systems. Strong knowledge of ingredient functionality and application in food formulation. Ability to translate food trends and customer requirements into practical product solutions. Good interpersonal, coordination, and computer skills. Strong communication skills with high attention to detail and documentation accuracy. Other Requirements Reliable, responsible, and consistently focused on quality of work. Committed, proactive, and demonstrates initiative in task execution and problem-solving. Positive, cooperative, and adaptable to change. Able to work independently as well as collaboratively in a fast-paced environment. Actively promotes teamwork and effective cross-functional collaboration. Benefits and Compensation Applicants must be eligible to work in the country where this job is located, without requiring sponsorship now or in the future. PrimaBaguz is committed to a respectful, diverse and inclusive workplace where equal opportunity is fostered throughout the organization. We do not discriminate and practice merit-based hiring practices, evaluating each candidate based on their skills, experience and fit for the role.