Reckitt — the global powerhouse behind some of the world’s most trusted hygiene, health, and nutrition brands — is inviting applications for its Research & Development Graduate Programme based in Pretoria, Gauteng. This is a 24-month opportunity to build a meaningful career in science and innovation at one of the world’s leading consumer goods companies.
About Reckitt
Reckitt’s purpose is clear: to protect, heal, and nurture in the relentless pursuit of a cleaner, healthier world. Operating across nine Centres of Excellence globally, the company’s R&D division is home to scientists, engineers, and regulatory professionals who push the boundaries of formulation science, product safety, and consumer wellness. In South Africa, Reckitt continues to invest in developing local scientific talent through structured graduate development.
The Role
As an R&D Graduate, you will be embedded within a team of expert scientists, contributing meaningfully to product safety, efficacy, and regulatory compliance from day one. Working in a fast-paced laboratory and cross-functional environment, you will gain hands-on exposure across multiple R&D disciplines while supported by Reckitt’s dedicated Research and Development Academy.
Key Responsibilities
You will prepare and manage regulatory and technical documentation for licence variations, supporting global R&D activities with accurate scientific data. Daily responsibilities include conducting analytical chemistry testing, stability studies, and data analysis in line with SOP, ISO, GLP, and good laboratory practice standards. You will contribute to formulation development and raw material management on low-risk R&D projects, ensuring feasibility, validation, industrial trials, and dossier preparation are delivered on time. The role also requires collaboration with cross-functional teams and external partners, including competitive product performance evaluations, particularly within the gastrointestinal product category. Accurate record-keeping, equipment maintenance, and laboratory inventory management form a core part of the position.
Who Should Apply
Reckitt is looking for recent graduates holding a Bachelor’s degree with Honours, a Master’s degree, or a PhD in Chemistry, Pharmacy, Chemical Engineering, or a closely related scientific discipline, obtained from 2024 onwards. Candidates should have between zero and two years of work experience, ideally within the FMCG sector. The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, analytically minded, and capable of managing projects of varying complexity under pressure. Strong communication skills, an innovative mindset, and a commitment to maintaining high scientific standards are essential. Candidates must be available to commit to the full 24-month programme duration.
What Reckitt Offers
Reckitt offers a competitive, market-aligned package that includes parental benefits, an Employee Assistance Programme supporting mental health, and life insurance for all employees. Through global share plans, graduates have the opportunity to participate in the company’s long-term success. Reckitt is deeply committed to inclusion, equity, and hiring for potential — if this opportunity resonates with you even if you do not meet every requirement listed, the company encourages you to apply.
How to Apply
Submit your application through the official Reckitt careers portal before the closing date.
Leave a Reply