AFRIpads is looking for a Product Developer

An exciting opportunity has become available at AFRIpads and we’re looking for a vibrant, creative, practical Product Developer to help drive innovation and R&D at AFRIpads.

About AFRIpads

AFRIpads, an award-winning social enterprise, is founded on the belief that if we can overcome menstrual barriers, we are one step closer to gender equality.
Our innovative menstrual health and hygiene solution drives life-changing impact through our reusable products, menstrual health education, and an evidence-based approach. Our core product – AFRIpads Reusable Menstrual Kits – provides women and girls with a sustainable, quality certified menstrual product solution that offers lasting protection, comfort, and dignity. AFRIpads has its head office in Kampala, Uganda. The AFRIpads factory is located in Masaka, Uganda, and supported by our team of nearly 100 employees (over 85% female). AFRIpads products are exported to over 40 countries and have impacted the lives of more than 6 million women and girls. To learn more please visit www.afripads.com.

Who are we looking for

A creative and pragmatic candidate with relevant experience in R&D

Female candidates are strongly encouraged to apply

The Role

Our R&D Department is responsible for all aspects of product at AFRIpads, from monitoring and improving our existing products, to investigating and launching new high-impact menstrual health products. Your role will be pivotal in the creation, development, testing, and implementation of products. This role is an exciting opportunity to work at the forefront of user centered design and social impact, leveraging your skills to improve the lives and dignity of women and girls around the world. You will report to the Technical Product Manager, and will collaborate closely with other departments and team members about product needs.

Key Responsibilities

• Evaluate market needs and trends
• Explore design ideas for new product concepts and improvements
• Concept generation of new product ideas based on consumer research or company strategy
• Prototype new product concepts in coordination with Technical Product Manager
• Help plan and run product tests
• Refine design ideas through information from user feedback, user centered design, and other product tests

Necessary requirements

Degree in Design, Engineering, Material Science, Public Health, Business studies, or similar.

Minimum of 2 years’ experience in product design, garment manufacturing, sample rooms, or other R&D work.

Skills:

• Product design thinking
• Ability to analyze market trends, customer segments, and competitive landscapes to inform product decisions.
• Basic understanding of textiles
• Project Management
• Data collection and reporting
• Strong documentation and communication skills
• Creative and problem-solving skills
• Understanding of the product design process
• Entrepreneurial and collaborative
• Analytical thinking

Preferred requirements

• User research methods, user-centred design
• Experience with menstrual products or medical devices
• Experience working with women and girls’ health
• Understanding of quality and safety standards
• Sketching and pattern making using manual and computer software
• Data analysis skills

What we offer

• We offer a competitive compensation package based on your experience.
• A 1-Year contract upon signing, with opportunity for performance-based extension.
• Daily company lunch at the office.
• Being part of a driven, fun and passionate team working on an important mission.

You want to join!

If you’re interested in this role at AFRIpads, we invite you to submit your application by going to https://a.peoplehum.com/xidsw. You will submit your CV and Portfolio (if available) no later than 13th March 2026.

For any questions, you can write to info@afripads.com.

We recognize the value of diversity in our workforce, and encourage all qualified candidates to apply, particularly women. We thank all candidates who apply; however only applicants selected for interviews will be contacted.