Product development scientists are employed in many areas, and their duties differ by the industry. A large number of product development scientists are employed in the food industry and in this industry scientists' duties include making sure that their company is in compliance with the requirements of government regulations and standards related to sanitation and waste management, safety as well as quality requirements. Making new food products to be produced based on customer feedback is a different task and so is the analysis of quality control.
The majority of the time, product development scientist is employed during normal working hours, though some overtime is required based on the business. Product development scientists should have an ability to speak effectively with other people both in writing and verbally. They should also possess excellent ability to make decisions and solve problems and have exceptional data analysis skills as well as the capacity to communicate results to laypeople as well as industry experts and various professionals within their workplaces.
Product development specialists generally require at minimum a bachelor's degree in science degree in a related area, like biochemistry, chemistry, or pharmaceuticals. Certain employers might also require specific experience in the industry or prior experience in a similar position.