Skip to main content

Job Alerts

Search Jobs

Search Jobs

careers as bold & bright as you

Application Scientist

Sandton, Gauteng, ZA   Johannesburg, Gauteng, ZA  
Apply Now
Job ID 6443 Date posted 03/16/2026 Category Research and Development

Sensient Technologies Corporation is a global leader in colors, flavors, and extracts. Our R&D teams drive innovation by developing advanced systems, ingredients, and technologies that transform food, personal care, and pharmaceutical products. Join us to be part of a dynamic group shaping the future across a variety of teams, including:

Analytics Team: Lead flavor research and analysis using instrumentation like HPLC, GC, and GC-MS. Improve and develop lab workflows and methodologies. Mentor staff to ensure both technical excellence and financial success through collaborative efforts.

Flavor Creation Team: Develop innovative flavors across diverse market segments, including Beverage, Savory, and Sweet. Work closely with customers and our Applications Teams to deliver impactful, tailored solutions which drive growth and exceed market expectations.

Sensory Team: Design and execute sensory and consumer research to provide in-depth understanding of products and consumers for product development, optimization and maintenance. Conduct panels and apply statistical analysis to deliver actionable insights. Lead training of cross-functional teams and customers in flavor language.

Innovation Team: Utilize scientific expertise to develop cutting-edge ingredients, formulations, and technologies. Contribute to groundbreaking product advancements. Collaborate with a global network of Sensient scientists to shape our industry's future.

Applications Team: Partner with customers in labs and at their facilities to bring their product visions to life. Solve challenges, provide creative solutions to deliver innovative products which align with customer goals across various industries.

  • Job Type: Full Time
  • Job Level: Entry, Mid, Senior
  • Travel : Depends on Role

success profile

We are looking for team members who are:

  • Results-focused
  • Collaborative
  • Skilled communicators
  • Analytically rigorous
  • Detail-oriented
  • Intensely curious

Your journey

career path

This is a sample of the R&D Career paths at Sensient.

  • Lab Technician
  • Application Scientist (multiple levels)
  • Technical Service Manager (multiple levels)
  • Technical Director
  • Senior Technical Director or
  • Innovation Intern
  • Innovation Associate (multiple levels)
  • Innovation Scientist (multiple levels)
  • Innovations Manager

cultural points

The Sensient Six are the core values that drive us in our mission.

  • Entrepreneurial
  • Customer focused
  • Develop self and others
  • Collaborative
  • Results driven
  • Know your job
My job gives me the unique opportunity to develop products that I feel passionate about. Being part of an international team, with access to so much know-how and the most innovative technologies, encourages me every day to do my best and to drive innovation.
Lisa Innovation Manager, Germany

Application Scientist

Sandton, Gauteng, ZA   Johannesburg, Gauteng, ZA  
Job ID 6443 Date posted March 15, 2026 Job Category Research and Development

The Flavor Application Technologist position performs flavor application of sweet, beverage, confectionery and savory products. In this role, you will work closely with international technical teams, and understand the key features and benefits of Sensient’s flavor portfolio. 

What you’ll do:

  • Responsible for flavor and some color application activities and support Sensient technical resources 
  • Create and develop application formulations, and optimize according to customer needs
  • Assist in flavor technical application discussions with customers and Sales Account Managers using the various technical information tools available
  • Recommend optimal product selection based on customers desired target markets and associated regulatory requirements
  • Support communications between the customer and Sensient’s Regulatory department

     and technologies

  • Prepare project reports, sample reports, and lab work reports

What you’ll bring:

  • University degree in Food Science, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering or related scientific discipline or equivalent 
  • Solid experience in flavor application with an emphasis on sweet/savory and beverage related food products
  • Ability to manage a project and have lab analytical skills would be advantageous
  • Demonstrated ability to prioritize and report accurately
  • Very good English language skills (fluent in spoken and written), other additional language proficiencies are an advantage

What you’ll get: 

  • Opportunity to collaborate with your colleagues, onsite 5 days per week 
  • An excellent salary, comprehensive benefit offering – medical scheme cover, retirement and death and disability insurance and development opportunities within an international business
  • International work experience as well as some business travel – for onboarding and training opportunities
  • A thorough and effective training experience during onboarding and beyond 

About Sensient: 

Sensient Technologies Corporation is a leading global manufacturer and marketer of colors, flavors, and extracts. Sensient employs advanced technologies at facilities around the world to develop specialty food and beverage systems, cosmetic and pharmaceutical systems, specialty colors, and other specialty and fine chemicals. The Company's customers include major international manufacturers representing most of the world's best-known brands.

About Sensient Colors: 

Sensient Colors is a leading developer, producer, and supplier of natural and synthetic color systems for customers around the globe. The Company's high-performance products play a vital role in the manufacture of foods and beverages, cosmetic and pharmaceutical colors and coatings, and colors for agricultural uses, household cleaners and paper products. 

Apply

innovation has never looked so good

be the first to know

Job Alerts Sign-Up

Get the latest job openings sent right to your inbox.

Customize your alerts. Enter your location and preferences to receive custom job alerts tailored to your skills.

Interested In

  • Research and Development, Sandton, Gauteng, South AfricaRemove
  • Research and Development, Johannesburg, Gauteng, South AfricaRemove