Purpose of Role
The Development Technologist reports to the Process Development Manager as part of the Development Team. The main purpose of the role is to create food that is safe and attractive to customers – primarily taking product from concept handover to launch, planning the large-scale manufacture of fresh, smoked and added-value products, designing processes for our production teams that enable efficient production within the regulatory framework, and keeping relevant NPD documentation/paperwork up to date.
The role is mostly office hours; however, it will involve evening/weekend work from time to time, particularly to ensure successful production trials and launches.
Main Duties
* Support the Process Development Manager in preparation for, and co‑ordination of launches for new or modified products
* Arrange production trials and ensure that processes can be repeated to guarantee consistency and safety
* Coordinate follow‑up from production trials, product sampling, and lessons learned
* Ensure that the relevant data is gathered and available to the Finance team to prepare product costings so that launched products are profitable
* Work with the Technical and Production teams to draw up product specifications and support the Finance team in accurately translating them into the company’s ERP system
* Collaborate with Production, Engineering, and Technical colleagues to develop solutions to production issues
* Work with ingredient and packaging suppliers to establish or improve supplies for new or existing products
* Take responsibility for artwork approval for all products within your portfolio and obtain relevant approval from certification bodies for on‑pack claims
* Occasionally visit stores for product evaluation
* Occasionally travel to customers and/or suppliers
Key Performance Indicators
* Successful navigation through the retailer Gate approval process
* Timely execution of production trials
* Identify and resolve potential issues before they result in delays
* Accurate and complete data gathering throughout the trial process
* Successful, on‑time product launches
Qualifications
* Third‑level qualification (diploma or degree) in Food Science, Chemistry, Microbiology, or another relevant subject is essential.
* An Accredited Food Safety qualification (REHIS or similar) would be advantageous.
* Own transport with a full, clean driving licence is essential.
* A thorough understanding of food processing and the business systems that ensure Food Safety for consumers is essential.
Skills
* A genuine interest in and enthusiasm for food, the seafood industry, and market trends
* A proactive, positive contributor – motivated and satisfied by working well with others to discuss new ideas and influence new processes
* Ability to stay up to date with any changes in customer requirements and relate them to potential business impact
* Accuracy and attention to detail
* Good organisational skills
* Ability to work under pressure and adapt quickly to situations
* Excellent written and verbal communication skills
* Willingness to learn
Experience
* Proven experience in a similar role gained in food manufacturing (seafood/other protein an advantage) preferably with a major retail customer
* Demonstrable track record of delivering high‑standard work to deadlines
Please note, we retain the right to close this vacancy or keep it open subject to volume and quality of applications. We would, therefore, encourage candidates to submit an application as soon as possible.
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