Essence Group Overview

Essence Group Pty Ltd is an Australian-owned, full-service manufacturer, distributor, and innovator of industrial goods, nutraceuticals, and infant nutrition. Essence Group is a leading producer of functional gummies, milk powder packaging, and TGA-certified tablets/capsules. With major expansions underway, Essence Group continues to grow as one of the most innovative and quality-driven food manufacturers in Australia.

Position Summary

The Product Technologist will play a key role in supporting the development, validation, and scale-up of new products, with a primary focus on gummy formulation and production. The role will be responsible for coordinating pilot runs, reviewing and refining formulations, and working closely with R&D, Quality, Engineering, and Production teams to bring innovative products from concept through to commercial launch.

This position requires strong technical knowledge of food/nutraceutical manufacturing, hands-on trial management, and the ability to ensure new product formulations are practical, scalable, and compliant with regulatory requirements.

Key Duties and Responsibilities

Product Development & Pilot Runs

Manage and execute pilot-scale production runs for new product formulations (with emphasis on gummies).

Review formulations for manufacturability, stability, and compliance with regulatory standards.

Document trial results, identify issues, and recommend improvements for scale-up.

Collaborate with NPD, Quality, and Operations teams to ensure smooth transfer from pilot to full-scale production.

Formulation Review & Optimisation

Evaluate new and existing formulations for performance, cost-effectiveness, and consumer appeal.

Provide technical input into ingredient selection, functionality, and sourcing.

Support troubleshooting of formulation or process challenges during trials or production.

Ensure formulations comply with TGA, FSANZ, and international regulations.

Technical Support & Compliance

Prepare detailed reports on pilot trials, product performance, and process outcomes.

Support validation and documentation of new products according to GMP and TGA standards.

Ensure accurate records of all product trials, specifications, and formulations are maintained.

Assist with preparation of product dossiers for regulatory submissions.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

Work with Engineering and Production teams to optimise equipment settings and parameters for new products.

Support Quality Assurance in product testing, stability studies, and sensory evaluations.

Liaise with suppliers to trial new raw materials, flavours, and functional ingredients.

Provide training and technical guidance to production staff during new product introductions.

Experience and Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in Food Technology, chemical, chemistry, science, Pharmaceutical, or a related discipline.

2–4 years’ experience in product development, formulation, or manufacturing within food, nutraceutical, or pharmaceutical industries.

Hands-on experience with confectionery, gummy, or functional food production highly desirable.

Strong knowledge of GMP, HACCP, FSANZ, and TGA regulatory requirements.

Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills.

Strong communication and documentation/reporting abilities.

Ability to work collaboratively in cross-functional teams and independently manage pilot projects.

Why Join Essence Group?

Play a hands-on role in bringing new health products to market.

Work in a collaborative, fast-paced environment with opportunities for career growth.

Join an Australian-owned company that values quality, compliance, and innovation.

To apply PLEASE READ THE FOLLOWING REQUIREMENTS:

All applications must be submitted via the link - direct email applications are not accepted.

Your application MUST include a cover letter with your CV, outlining how your skills and experience align with the key criteria for the role.

Applications will only be accepted from candidates with current unrestricted Australian working rights - this role is not offering visa sponsorship.