Key Responsibilities Product Development & Formulation Develop and optimize probiotic soda recipes achieving target CFU counts (1 billion+ per serving) with 6+ month ambient shelf stabilitySource and evaluate probiotic cultures, sweeteners, and flavoring ingredients from local and regional supplierCreate product specifications balancing taste profile, health efficacy, production feasibility, and cost targetsDesign and execute sensory testing protocols for consumer validation Production & Quality Systems Design a production process that allows for efficient production from day 1 and scales with the needs of the companyDesign quality control procedures including microbial testing, CFU verification, and shelf-life validationDevelop Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for all production processesImplement HACCP framework and prepare facility for KEBS certification Regulatory & Compliance Lead KEBS product & production certification process including documentation, testing, and facility inspection preparationNavigate regulatory requirements for health claims and probiotic labelingMaintain compliance records and prepare for periodic regulatory audits Scale-Up & Operations Specify equipment requirements for Phase 1 production (500,000L annual capacity)Evaluate and recommend co-packing partnerships as alternative or complement to owned productionDevelop tech transfer documentation for production scaling RequirementsRequired Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Food Technology, Microbiology, Biochemistry, or related field5+ years experience in food/beverage product developmentPrior experience in beverage manufacturing at commercial scaleHands-on experience with live cultures, probiotics, or fermented beverages (kombucha, kefir, yogurt, or similar)Working knowledge of KEBS certification processes and Kenyan food safety regulationsExperience developing and implementing HACCP or similar food safety systemsStrong analytical skills and comfort with laboratory testing procedures Preferred Master's degree in Food Science or related disciplineExperience with carbonation and bottling processesExisting relationships with ingredient suppliers, testing laboratories, or regulatory consultants in KenyaEntrepreneurial mindset and comfort with ambiguity in startup environments