Cape Herb & Spice is seeking a Food Technologist graduate for a 6-month contract in Tokai, Western Cape. The role involves new product development, technical support, and quality assurance in the spice manufacturing sector. Applications close 30 April 2026.
Cape Herb & Spice, a leading name in the South African spice manufacturing sector, has announced an exciting opportunity for graduate professionals in Food Technology, Food Science, or Consumer Science. The company is offering a six-month contract for a Food Technologist to join its New Product Development (NPD) team at its Westlake Business Park facility in Tokai, Western Cape. The position, posted on 26 March 2026, has a closing date of 30 April 2026, providing a limited window for interested candidates to apply.
This graduate contract is tailored for individuals who are either recent graduates or early-career professionals seeking hands-on experience in food technology within a dynamic and innovative environment. Cape Herb & Spice is recognised for its commitment to quality, innovation, and excellence, offering interns and graduates the chance to contribute to projects that directly influence new product lines in the spice and flavour industry.
Role Overview
Reporting directly to the NPD Food Technologist, the successful candidate will support technical projects across the New Product Development division. The role focuses on research, data management, technical problem-solving, and quality assurance, ensuring that new product formulations meet safety and quality standards.
Key responsibilities include:
- Supporting research initiatives and building technical data across multiple NPD projects.
- Providing technical support and contributing to problem-solving within the NPD department.
- Coordinating recipe tastings and conducting product testing to ensure safety, quality, and compliance with industry standards.
Through these responsibilities, the role offers the graduate a comprehensive understanding of the processes involved in developing new food products, from initial concept through testing to market readiness.
Candidate Requirements
The ideal applicant is organised, detail-oriented, proactive, and capable of working effectively in a collaborative environment. Strong communication skills are essential, as the role requires close interaction with team members across the NPD and quality assurance divisions. Candidates must also demonstrate comfort with Microsoft Office applications, including intermediate-level proficiency in Excel for data management and reporting.
Applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Graduate or early-career professional in Food Technology, Food Science, or Consumer Science.
- Organised, detail-oriented, and proactive approach to tasks.
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work well in a team.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, including intermediate Excel skills.
This role is an ideal opportunity for graduates who wish to gain exposure to the manufacturing and spice production sector, develop practical skills in new product development, and build a professional foundation for a career in food technology and product management.
Why Apply
Joining Cape Herb & Spice provides a unique platform to work in a structured, professional environment with mentorship from experienced food technologists and product development specialists. Graduates will gain insight into the full spectrum of NPD processes, including product formulation, quality assessment, and sensory evaluation. The six-month contract allows participants to build meaningful industry experience and strengthen their professional portfolio, enhancing long-term career prospects in food technology, manufacturing, and consumer product development.
Cape Herb & Spice is dedicated to fostering a culture of innovation and continuous learning. Graduates who join the NPD team will be exposed to hands-on projects that directly impact the company’s product offerings, while also developing technical, analytical, and communication skills essential for success in the food science sector.
Interested candidates are encouraged to prepare their application documents promptly and submit them before the closing date of 30 April 2026. This role represents a valuable opportunity to gain practical industry experience, contribute to product innovation, and start building a professional network in South Africa’s food manufacturing industry.
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