Overview
Avara Foods is a UK-based leading food business supplying chicken and turkey to major supermarkets and well-known restaurants. We own and manage our entire supply chain from farms to factory to the customer door, with careers across a wide range of functions. We operate major processing sites across England and Wales and an agricultural network of over 350 farms from North Yorkshire to the South Coast and Wales.
About The Role
Are you passionate about technical roles within packaging? We are looking for a highly competent and motivated group packaging technologist to join our Technical Team, based at one of the following sites: Dudley, Telford or Hereford. The role may be undertaken by graduates as well as experienced professionals. Working hours are Monday to Friday, 08:00 – 17:00.
Responsibilities
* Packaging knowledge – Demonstrate comprehensive knowledge of packaging materials used across Avara's product range; act as the primary point of contact for packaging-related issues and provide expert guidance to internal teams.
* Identify and promote sustainable packaging options that are environmentally friendly and fit for purpose.
* Stay up to date with industry regulations such as OPRL, EPR, and Plastic Tax to ensure packaging compliance.
* Consult with packaging suppliers to secure samples, gather technical information, and stay informed about new developments in packaging materials.
* Packaging development – Assist in designing and creating new packaging concepts and product formats at the concept stage; coordinate factory feasibility trials, transit trials, and product performance analyses; use trial results to ensure accurate costings and refine packaging designs; present concepts to internal teams and external stakeholders; create cutter guides for labels, sleeves, bags, and printed films to ensure accurate production specifications.
* Project management – Lead the management of packaging and Foodservice NPD launches, coordinate cross-functional teams to meet timelines, and attend site-based NPD meetings to ensure alignment of goals.
* Foodservice NPD – Collaborate with external suppliers and the Avara insights team to develop innovative foodservice concepts; ensure concepts meet costing targets, ingredient specifications, nutritional requirements, and factory capabilities; oversee factory trials to pass necessary testing (microbiological, organoleptic, nutritional).
What You’ll Need To Be Successful
* At least 2 years of experience in packaging development within an FMCG environment, preferably in meat or poultry.
* Proven track record in managing critical paths and coordinating cross-functional teams for packaging and product launches.
* Strong understanding of the functional properties of packaging materials.
* A recognized qualification in Food Science, Technical, or Engineering.
* Demonstrated ability to identify cost-saving opportunities and implement efficiency improvements within packaging processes.
The Benefits Of Working For Avara Foods
As a group packaging technologist you will enjoy a secure, supportive and progressive working environment where your contribution will be recognised and rewarded. We offer comprehensive training and ongoing development to build your long-term career, plus benefits listed below.
* From £35,000 per annum
* 31 days holiday allowance
* Secure contract with long-term career development opportunities
* 6% pension contribution
* Subsidised staff canteen serving hot food
* Staff shop / staff sales at discounted prices
* Cycle to work scheme
* Salaried Advance Finance
* Salary Sacrifice Car Scheme
* Access to our Employee Benefit Scheme with remote GP, mental health support, physiotherapy, second opinion and other discounts
* Ts & Cs apply
What happens after you apply
After you’ve applied, you’ll be contacted by a Resourcing Officer at our Brackley site to discuss your application and CV and to answer any questions about the role. If you’re ready to work in a dynamic environment alongside talented people who take pride in delivering great results, apply today. We are committed to being an equal opportunities employer. INDHP #TheAvaraWay
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