Research and Development Engineer - Beverage/Liquid Industry

Location: Dhahran, Saudi Arabia ERAM Talent is seeking an experienced Research & Development (R&D) Engineer – Beverages . The successful candidate will be responsible for developing innovative beverage formulations, improving existing products, conducting pilot trials, and supporting factory-scale production. This role requires strong expertise in beverage formulation, sugar reduction technologies, and functional ingredients. Key Responsibilities Develop and formulate new beverage and liquid products based on market trends and customer requirements. Improve existing beverage formulations to enhance taste, quality, nutritional value, and production efficiency. Lead sugar reduction initiatives using alternative sweeteners while maintaining product taste, texture, and stability. Develop formulations incorporating functional ingredients such as vitamins, minerals, proteins, and fibers. Conduct laboratory trials, bench-top formulations, and pilot-scale testing. Lead factory scale-up activities and support the successful transition from laboratory development to commercial production. Evaluate thermal processing methods, including pasteurization, to ensure product quality and ingredient stability. Select and evaluate raw materials and identify suitable alternatives when required. Provide technical support during new product launches and production trials. Train production teams on processing requirements for new formulations. Troubleshoot manufacturing issues such as sedimentation, phase separation, flavor degradation, and color changes. Work closely with Quality Assurance to ensure compliance with food safety and regulatory standards. Conduct shelf-life studies, stability testing, and maintain complete technical documentation. Requirements Bachelor's degree in Food Technology, Food Science, Chemical Engineering, Biotechnology, or a related discipline. 5+ years of hands-on R&D experience in the Beverage or Liquid Food Manufacturing industry. Proven experience in beverage formulation and product development. Strong knowledge of functional ingredients and their stability in liquid applications. Demonstrated experience in sugar reduction projects and alternative sweeteners. Experience with pilot plant trials and factory-scale production. Sound understanding of pasteurization, beverage processing, and food safety standards. Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and problem-solving skills. Excellent documentation and communication abilities. Preferred Experience Experience in juice, flavored beverages, dairy beverages, functional drinks, or similar liquid food products. Exposure to cost optimization and product reformulation projects. Familiarity with international food safety and quality management systems.