626 Materials Engineering jobs in Kenya

• Lead and conduct research into the development of new materials with specific properties relevant to chemical applications.
• Characterize materials using advanced analytical techniques (e.g., SEM, TEM, XRD, DSC, TGA, spectroscopy).
• Design and execute experiments to understand material behavior, performance, and degradation mechanisms.
• Collaborate with chemical engineers to integrate novel materials into existing or new chemical processes and products.
• Analyze experimental data, interpret results, and generate comprehensive reports with actionable insights.
• Identify opportunities for material innovation and contribute to the intellectual property portfolio.
• Mentor junior scientists and technicians, guiding their research and development activities.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in materials science and relevant chemical engineering fields.
• Work with manufacturing and scale-up teams to ensure the successful transition of new materials into production.
• Ensure all research activities comply with safety and environmental regulations.
• Present research findings at internal meetings and external conferences.

• Ph.D. or Master's degree in Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, Polymer Science, or a closely related field.
• Minimum of 7 years of relevant research experience in materials science, with a focus on chemical applications.
• Expertise in material characterization techniques and data analysis.
• Proven track record of successfully developing and launching new materials.
• Strong understanding of chemical synthesis, process development, and scale-up principles.
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and critical thinking skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to communicate complex scientific concepts clearly.
• Experience in project leadership and mentoring junior team members.
• Ability to work effectively in a collaborative, team-oriented environment.
• Knowledge of polymer chemistry, composite materials, or nanotechnology is a plus.

We are PZ Cussons. Our purpose is
For everyone, for life, for good
.

Sustainability and the wellbeing of people, families and communities everywhere are at the heart of everything that we do.

Since our founding in 1884, we have been creating products to delight, care for and nourish consumers. Across our core categories of Hygiene, Baby and Beauty, our trusted and well-loved brands include Carex, Cussons Baby, Sanctuary Spa and St. Tropez.

Key Responsibilities

• Drive innovation and new product development in liaison with the Brand Team.
• Oversee technical operations, ensuring efficient processes and high-quality standards.
• Oversee the scale-up process from lab to production, including troubleshooting and technical support.
• Provide technical support to ascertain root causes of product issues and achieve resolution
• Conduct competitor benchmark analysis and identify opportunities for technological improvements.
• Scan the cosmetics industry, suppliers and academia for new technologies that can deliver a competitive advantage to products
• Manage budgets, resources, and timelines for R&D projects.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including engineering, production, and marketing.
• Develop prototypes, test methodologies, and technical solutions to enhance product performance.
• Stay updated on emerging technologies and trends to maintain competitive advantages.
• Lead the team to come up with Margin Improvement Projects
• Provide technical guidance, mentorship, and leadership to team members.
• Ensure company products and processes comply with local, national, and international regulatory requirements.
• Develop and implement regulatory policies and procedures across departments.
• Liaise with regulatory authorities, industry bodies, and certification agencies.
• Prepare and submit documentation for certifications, licenses, and regulatory approvals.
• Monitor changes in industry regulations and update company practices accordingly.
• Conduct internal audits and risk assessments to ensure compliance with standards.
• Provide training on regulatory requirements to internal teams.

Qualifications And Experience

• Bachelor's or master's degree in industrial chemistry or a related technical field.
• Proven experience (5+ years) in R&D, technical management, regulatory compliance, or product development.
• Strong knowledge of industry-specific regulations and quality standards.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and team collaboration abilities.
• Experience in managing technical projects and regulatory reporting.
• Proficiency in data analysis, testing methodologies, and innovation strategies.

Preferred Skills

• Familiarity with the soap, dishwashing paste and cosmetic production technologies.
• Strong analytical mindset with the ability to drive continuous improvement.
• Commercial Acumen

PZ Cussons is big enough to make your mark, small enough to make it yours.
Apply to join us

Industry
: Design Services / Arts & Crafts / Lifestyle Décor

Location
: Nairobi, Kenya

Employment Type
:(Onsite) Full-time

About Us

Nyota Living (under the Bobu Africa Lifestyle) is a purpose-driven cultural décor brand rooted in Africa and built to inspire the world. We collaborate with local artisans to create authentic, handcrafted pieces for hotels, lodges, safari camps, and export markets. Each product we design tells a story of heritage, wildlife, and community empowerment.

We are now seeking a passionate
Product Development Designer
to lead us in the creative journey from concept to finished product, working hand-in-hand with artisans to transform African traditions into contemporary, globally appealing décor.

Key Responsibilities.

1.Product Design & Development.

1.  Conceptualize from scratch and design handmade décor products aligned with brand identity and market demand.

2.  Translate design ideas into technical sketches, prototypes, and production-ready samples.

2.Artisan Collaboration.

1. Work closely with artisans to guide product creation, ensuring quality, consistency, and authenticity.

2. Develop and document SOPs for production processes.

3.Market Research & Trends.

1. Research global design trends, hospitality needs, and consumer preferences to inspire new collections.

2. Adapt traditional techniques into modern, functional, and export-ready designs.

4.Quality Assurance.

1.Ensure each product meets high standards of craftsmanship, durability, and sustainability.

2.Oversee sampling, testing, and refinement stages.

5.Project & Production Management.

1.Coordinate timelines, materials sourcing, and production processes.

2.Collaborate with the marketing and sales teams to align design with customer expectations.

6.Innovation & Sustainability.

1.Drive design innovation while promoting eco-friendly practices.

2.Explore alternative materials that reflect African heritage, nature and wildlife while appealing to global markets.

Qualifications & Skills.

1.Degree in Product Design, Industrial Design, Interior Design, or a related field.

2.2–4 years of experience in product development, preferably in crafts, décor, or handmade industries.

1. Strong portfolio showcasing creative design and product development skills.

2. Proficiency in Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, InDesign, SketchUp/AutoCAD etc with skills for 2D/3D modeling, technical drawings, and product visualization.

5.Knowledge of materials, finishes, and sustainable production methods.

6.Strong communication and interpersonal skills to engage with artisans and cross-functional teams.

1. Project management skills with the ability to manage multiple products simultaneously.

Why Join Us

1.Be part of a purpose-driven brand that celebrates Africa's cultural heritage.

2.Work directly with talented artisans and make a real community impact.

3.Opportunity to innovate.

1. A collaborative environment where creativity and storytelling thrive.

Ready to bring African stories to life through design? Apply today and be part of a movement redefining African décor for the world.

How to apply

Share your
CV AND PORTFOLIO(
MUST) to our Email: with Subject title as Your Name+Job Title.

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Food Science, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a related scientific discipline.
• Minimum of 4-7 years of experience in product development within the FMCG or food industry.
• Strong knowledge of food formulation, processing, and preservation techniques.
• Experience with sensory evaluation and product testing methodologies.
• Proficiency in laboratory techniques and data analysis.
• Excellent problem-solving, critical thinking, and communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and manage projects effectively in a remote setting.
• Knowledge of food safety standards (e.g., HACCP, ISO 22000) is a plus.

• Leading the research, development, and formulation of new skincare, haircare, and color cosmetic products from concept to commercialization.
• Optimizing existing product formulations for improved performance, stability, and cost-effectiveness.
• Conducting extensive laboratory work, including ingredient research, compatibility testing, and stability studies.
• Collaborating closely with cross-functional teams, including marketing, regulatory affairs, and manufacturing, to ensure successful product launches.
• Staying abreast of the latest scientific research, industry trends, and innovative ingredients in the beauty and wellness space.
• Troubleshooting formulation challenges and developing effective solutions.
• Preparing detailed technical reports, documentation, and presentation materials.
• Ensuring all product development activities comply with relevant industry regulations and safety standards.
• Providing technical guidance and mentorship to junior chemists and formulators.
• Contributing to the intellectual property portfolio through innovative discoveries and patent applications.

• Defining and driving the product vision, strategy, and roadmap in alignment with business objectives.
• Conducting market research, competitive analysis, and customer feedback analysis to identify new product opportunities.
• Translating product strategy into detailed requirements, user stories, and product specifications.
• Collaborating closely with engineering, design, marketing, and sales teams throughout the product development process.
• Managing the product backlog and prioritizing features based on business value and strategic impact.
• Overseeing the development and execution of product launch plans.
• Monitoring product performance, gathering user feedback, and iterating on products to drive continuous improvement.
• Mentoring and coaching junior product managers and product owners.
• Presenting product strategies and updates to senior leadership and key stakeholders.
• Ensuring products meet quality standards, compliance requirements, and user expectations.

• Lead the research and development of new FMCG products.
• Develop innovative product formulations and optimize existing ones.
• Conduct laboratory experiments and benchtop formulations.
• Manage sensory evaluation panels and analyze consumer feedback.
• Collaborate with marketing on product positioning and claims.
• Work with operations to scale up production from pilot to commercial levels.
• Ensure product compliance with food safety regulations and quality standards.
• Analyze market trends and competitor products.
• Prepare technical documentation and reports.
• Troubleshoot product-related issues throughout the lifecycle.

• Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a related discipline.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in product development within the FMCG sector.
• Strong knowledge of formulation science, ingredient functionality, and processing technologies.
• Experience with sensory analysis and consumer product testing.
• Understanding of food safety regulations (e.g., HACCP, GMP).
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and project management skills.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple projects remotely.
• Strong communication and interpersonal abilities for cross-functional collaboration.
• Proficiency in relevant scientific software and documentation practices.

• Lead the end-to-end product development process for new and existing products.
• Translate market requirements and customer needs into detailed product design specifications.
• Develop and execute robust testing and validation plans.
• Create and review CAD models, technical drawings, and Bill of Materials (BOM).
• Collaborate with manufacturing partners to ensure design for manufacturability (DFM).
• Conduct root cause analysis for product failures and implement corrective actions.
• Manage project timelines, resources, and budgets effectively.
• Stay abreast of emerging technologies, materials, and manufacturing techniques.
• Mentor junior engineers and contribute to a culture of innovation and continuous improvement.
• Prepare technical documentation, reports, and presentations.
• Ensure product designs comply with relevant industry standards and regulations.

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Industrial Design, or a related engineering discipline.
• Minimum of 7 years of experience in product development and engineering, with a strong portfolio of launched products.
• Proven expertise in CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, AutoCAD) and simulation tools.
• Solid understanding of materials science, manufacturing processes (e.g., injection molding, CNC machining, PCB assembly), and quality control methodologies.
• Experience managing complex engineering projects from concept to production.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.
• Strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively in a remote team.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities.
• Knowledge of intellectual property and patent processes is a plus.