Senior Product Development Technologist

Are you seeking an innovative role in product development within the dairy sector? We are hiring a Senior Product Development Technologist to join our DSDA Research & Innovation team, based at either our Kiewa factory or Melbourne office. This key role will drive end‑to‑end product innovation and support our long‑term NPD strategy on a 12-month parental leave cover contract. In this position, you’ll report directly to the R&I & Sustainability Manager and take ownership of developing new products, renovating existing ones, and delivering productivity initiatives that directly support business growth. You’ll work hands‑on across the full development lifecycle; from concept, formulation and trials, through to validation, packaging development and launch ensuring every product meets our technical, commercial and quality expectations. Your responsibilities include (but are not limited to): Lead technical product development and factory implementation projects across innovation, compliance and business continuity initiatives. Plan, execute and evaluate pilot and industrial trials, ensuring successful scale-up and manufacturing readiness. Manage R&I activities across the full project lifecycle, from concept development through validation and launch. Partner closely with Operations, Quality, Procurement, Supply Chain and Marketing to deliver robust, consumer-centric and commercially viable solutions. Ensure robust documentation, traceability and knowledge transfer across projects. Drive technical investigations, root cause analysis and risk assessments to resolve product and manufacturing challenges. Identify, evaluate and implement new ingredients, technologies and supplier partnerships to strengthen R&I capability and unlock future growth opportunities.

You are an experienced Product Development Technologist with deep technical expertise in dairy science and a proven ability to lead complex development programs from concept to commercialisation. You bring a strong blend of scientific rigour, strategic thinking, and operational execution, with the confidence to influence stakeholders across technical, quality, operations, and marketing functions. You thrive in dynamic, fast‑paced manufacturing environments and apply an agile, solutions‑oriented mindset to drive projects forward. Your leadership style is collaborative and grounded in strong interpersonal skills. You build trust quickly, communicate clearly, and create alignment even when navigating complexity. To be successful you must have: A tertiary qualification in Food Science, Dairy Science, Life Science, Human Nutrition, or a related field 5+ years’ experience in a similar dairy industry role (highly desirable) Excellent written and verbal communication skills Strong planning, organisation, and prioritisation abilities, with confidence managing evolving priorities Strong attention to detail, ensuring robust technical evaluations, accurate documentation and high-quality project execution. A high level of accountability, taking ownership of technical outcomes and project delivery Demonstrated autonomy and drive, with the ability to progress work proactively and maintain momentum without close supervision About Us We truly value our Danoners and strive to make their experience exceptional by creating a positive and fulfilling environment for everyone. Our unique benefits are designed to enhance the lives and provide genuine value. A high-performing, collaborative team culture Flexible Hybrid working Thank Danone it’s Friday! 3pm finishes every Friday Diverse and inclusive work environment Personalised learning opportunities to set you up for success Competitive Total Reward package including Health and Life insurance benefit 26 weeks of gender-neutral paid parental leave Employee Share Subscription Plan after 12 months of service Performance-related incentives and annual reviews More about Us: At Danone, we aim to inspire healthier and