Scientist, Product Development (Tea), R&D

Overview

The Coca-Cola Company is seeking a dedicated Scientist specializing in Tea product development to be based at their Singapore CPS Plant in Tuas Bay. This individual contributor role is critical to driving breakthrough innovation from concept through commercialization in the Tea beverage category within the ASEAN & South Pacific Innovation Center.

Key Responsibilities

• Formulate and develop lab-scale tea beverage prototypes including bases, syrups, and finished products aligned with global and regional consumer insights, adhering to Good Manufacturing Practices and company standards.
• Evaluate global tea formulations identifying opportunities for harmonization, transfer, and localization.
• Lead sensory, analytical, and shelf-life testing in partnership with microbiology and stability teams, conducting stability assessments including accelerated testing under various conditions.
• Document and analyze testing data, providing clear communication of findings and strategic recommendations.
• Support pilot and commercial scale production trials ensuring formulation reliability, ingredient suitability, cost efficiency, and packaging compatibility.
• Monitor and assess competitor tea products globally to inform innovation strategies and identify category opportunities.
• Organize and facilitate internal and consumer tastings, managing sample preparation, feedback collection, and session documentation.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with global and regional teams in GDI, marketing, supply chain, packaging, quality assurance, analytical chemistry, ingredient sourcing, and product commercialization.
• Maintain precise formula records in formula management systems and uphold rigorous lab safety, documentation integrity, and audit readiness.

Qualifications and Experience

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Food Science, Food Technology, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Agricultural Sciences, Biology, or related disciplines.
• 5 to 8 years of experience in product development, preferably within the beverage industry, with strong preference for candidates experienced with tea-based products.
• Knowledge of beverage formulation principles, ingredient functionality, and manufacturing processes.
• Proficiency in sensory evaluation techniques, analytical methods, and shelf-life testing.
• Strong problem-solving capabilities with ability to align daily tasks to broader project and business goals.
• Effective communication skills tailored for both technical and non-technical audiences.
• Leadership qualities including informal mentorship and collaborative teamwork.
• Fluency in English; proficiency in additional regional languages is advantageous.
• Willingness to travel regionally and internationally up to 10-15%.

Why Work With Us?

• Direct involvement across all development stages from lab bench to commercial plant, fostering a hands-on innovation environment.
• Access to a global technical network enhancing skill development and knowledge exchange.
• Utilization of advanced digital tools to streamline and accelerate product innovation cycles.
• Engagement with external partners such as suppliers and startups to integrate emerging technologies.
• An inclusive and collaborative culture promoting curiosity, agility, and continuous improvement.

Desired Behaviors

• A growth mindset embracing curiosity and learning from setbacks.
• Bold, commercially aware decision-making and accountability for high performance.
• Agility in overcoming barriers and adapting quickly under pressure.
• Proactive problem-solving with courage to challenge norms and offer innovative solutions.
• Ownership mentality, fostering collaboration and development of self and others.
• Active contribution to driving innovation and sustaining business success.

Additional Information

• Location: Singapore, CPS Plant (Tuas Bay)
• Travel requirement: Up to 25%
• No relocation assistance provided
• Job posting valid until July 15, 2026

Company Culture

The Coca-Cola Company nurtures an inclusive and empowering workplace firmly rooted in its mission to refresh the world and make a positive difference. Valuing curiosity, empowerment, inclusion, and agility, the company fosters continuous learning and innovation to maintain enduring success.