Overview
Sr. Scientist - Product Development (12month FTC). Temporary full-time role located in Scarborough, Grade 05, Requisition ID 38084.
McCain Foods is seeking a Senior Scientist – Product Development (FTC) to lead technical development and implementation of innovative products and processes across global and regional potato and appetiser projects. You will collaborate with a cross-functional team and apply project management principles to deliver breakthrough solutions that delight consumers worldwide.
Responsibilities
* Create & Innovate: Design and develop products from concept to full-scale launch that delight consumers.
* Lead Projects: Drive global and regional projects through the stage-gate process, delivering on time, to cost, and to quality standards.
* Hands-On Development: Run prototypes, trials, and validations to ensure robust, scalable processes.
* Own the Details: Define product specs, analyse trial data, and collaborate with Sensory and Quality teams to set targets.
* Ensure Compliance: Apply knowledge of ingredients, nutrition, regulations, and food safety; generate product specifications into the PLM system.
* Launch & Improve: Lead implementation plans for smooth handovers and drive continuous product improvements.
* Communicate & Collaborate: Partner with cross-functional teams and stakeholders, sharing technical knowledge with clarity.
* Stay Ahead: Keep informed on food trends and industry practices, bringing fresh ideas to the team.
* Support & Share: Contribute to team growth, coach others, and share best practices across regions.
What You’ll Bring
* Proven expertise in stage-gate project management with strong documentation skills.
* Hands-on experience in concept development, prototyping, and scale-up.
* Ability to run feasibility and risk assessments with confidence.
* Solid understanding of costs and building COGs in partnership with Finance.
* Knowledge of manufacturing processes and raw materials/ingredients.
* Strong grounding in food safety (HACCP, microbiology, allergens).
* Familiarity with food regulations, including nutritional and ingredient declarations.
Location & Working Style
Hybrid working: office-based expectations are flexible; connect in person about half of working time. Head office is the Scarborough Experience Centre, near Leeds York corridor. Collaboration with colleagues in-office and from home is encouraged to maintain work-life balance.
Benefits
* Generous Car Allowance
* Achievable yearly bonus based on personal performance
* Excellent pension program
* Flexible holidays – buy/sell up to 5 days per year
* Optional health cash plan
* Cycle to work scheme
* Chips In volunteering day off
The McCain Experience
McCain Foods is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to inclusion and equal opportunity in all aspects of employment. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, sex, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected characteristic. If you require accommodation during the recruitment process, please let us know so we can provide suitable solutions. Your privacy is important; see McCain’s Global Privacy Policy and Global Employee Privacy Policy for details.
Job Family: Research & Development
Division: Global Research and Development
Department: R and D - GB
Location(s): GB - United Kingdom : England : Scarborough
Company: McCain Foods (G.B.) Ltd
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