About PepsiCo

PepsiCo is one of the world's leading food and beverage companies, with a portfolio that includes iconic brands like Pepsi, Gatorade, Lay’s, and Quaker. Operating in over 200 countries, PepsiCo employs more than 300,000 people globally and generates annual revenues exceeding $86 billion. In China, PepsiCo has a strong presence, focusing on innovation in beverages to meet evolving consumer preferences. As a leader in sustainable practices, PepsiCo is committed to positive change through initiatives like PepsiCo Positive (pep+), aiming for net-zero emissions by 2040. Joining PepsiCo means contributing to a legacy of bold innovation while enjoying a dynamic, inclusive culture.

Role Overview

The R&D Scientist, Product Development, Beverage China position at PepsiCo in Shanghai is a pivotal role within the Greater China Region (GCR) technical platform. This full-time position supports PepsiCo's core innovation, renovation, productivity improvements, and brand maintenance efforts specifically for beverages. Based in vibrant Shanghai, you will lead product development projects from concept to commercialization, ensuring alignment with consumer needs, operational feasibility, and stringent quality standards. Ideal for passionate food scientists with multinational experience, this role offers exposure to cutting-edge R&D in carbonated beverages and beyond.

Key Focus Areas

You will bridge cross-functional teams including Marketing (MKT), Operations (Ops), and Finance to translate market insights into actionable product pipelines. Hands-on lab work, prototyping, and rigorous testing will be central to your success, all while upholding PepsiCo's global standards for safety and quality.

Key Responsibilities

In this role, you will drive PepsiCo's beverage innovation forward through a series of critical tasks:

• Work closely with MKT, Ops, and Finance teams to identify consumer needs and spearhead the Pepsi Core innovation Annual Operating Plan (AOP) and productivity pipeline.
• Lead laboratory prototyping, product trial runs, Line Proving Runs (LPR), and manage product stability, Cost of Goods Sold (COGS), new ingredient approvals, and formula approvals.
• Ensure all products meet PepsiCo's rigorous food safety, quality, microbial, and Scientific Regulatory Affairs (SRA) requirements.
• Execute projects in compliance with Technical Service Group (TSG) standards, closely tracking progress through the myInnovation system.
• Support the GCR Pepsi core technical platform, contributing to innovation, renovation, productivity enhancements, and brand maintenance initiatives.

Qualifications & Requirements

To excel as an R&D Scientist at PepsiCo, candidates must possess:

• A Bachelor’s degree or higher in Food Science, Food Engineering, or closely related disciplines.
• More than 1 year of working experience in product development at a multinational Food or Beverage company.
• Fluency in both Mandarin and English, with strong written and spoken communication skills.
• Efficient communication abilities and basic leadership skills to propel projects forward.
• Hands-on experience with product design methodologies, processes, and tools applicable to R&D projects.
• Fundamental technical knowledge in carbonated beverage development, processing, packaging, Quality Assurance (QA), Regulatory Services (RS), consumer research, and data analysis.

PepsiCo values candidates who thrive in fast-paced, collaborative environments and demonstrate a passion for beverage innovation.

Benefits & Perks

PepsiCo offers a premium compensation package designed to attract top talent:

• Competitive estimated salary range of $65,000 - $95,000 USD annually, adjusted for local market rates with performance-based bonuses.
• Comprehensive health insurance, including medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• Generous paid time off, parental leave, and flexible working arrangements.
• Access to state-of-the-art R&D facilities and global learning platforms like PepsiCo University.
• Employee stock purchase plans, retirement savings matching, and wellness programs promoting work-life balance.

Career Growth

At PepsiCo, career progression is a reality. This R&D Scientist role serves as a launchpad for advancement into senior scientist, project manager, or regional leadership positions. With mentorship from global experts and opportunities for international assignments, you'll build a robust career in food and beverage innovation. PepsiCo's commitment to diversity and inclusion ensures equitable growth paths for all employees.

Why Join Us

Shanghai is a hub of innovation, and PepsiCo's China operations are at the forefront of beverage trends. Work on groundbreaking products that reach millions, collaborate with world-class teams, and contribute to sustainable practices. PepsiCo's culture emphasizes empowerment, creativity, and impact—join us to shape the future of beverages in one of the world's largest markets.

Role FAQs

Q: What is the experience level required?
A: Over 1 year in product development at a multinational Food/Beverage firm.

Q: Is bilingual proficiency mandatory?
A: Yes, fluency in Mandarin and English is essential for cross-functional collaboration.

Q: What tools will I use?
A: myInnovation system for project tracking, plus lab prototyping and analysis tools.

Q: Are there relocation benefits?
A: PepsiCo provides support for eligible international hires; details during interview process.

Q: How does this role contribute to PepsiCo's goals?
A: Directly drives innovation, quality, and productivity in China's dynamic beverage market.