At a Glance
- Tasks: Create and manage product specifications, ensuring compliance with food safety and legal standards.
- Company: Join a leading food manufacturer in Bradford with a focus on quality and innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, career development opportunities, and a collaborative work environment.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for continuous improvement and cross-functional collaboration.
- Why this job: Be a key player in product launches and ensure food safety compliance.
- Qualifications: Degree in Food Science or related field and 2 years' experience in food specifications.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Overview of role
The Specifications Technologist is responsible for the accurate creation, maintenance and approval of product specifications, artwork and technical documentation to ensure compliance with customer, legal, food safety and business requirements.
The role acts as a key link between Technical, NPD, Packaging and Commercial teams to support successful product launches and ongoing compliance.
- Key Accountabilities
- Specification Management
Create, review and maintain finished product specifications on retailer and customer specification systems.
Ensure all specification information is accurate, legally compliant and submitted within agreed project timelines.
Maintain internal specification databases and document control systems.
Review finished product specifications in accordance with BRCGS and customer requirements.
Technical Compliance
Validate ingredient declarations, allergen information, nutritional data, country of origin, shelf life, storage instructions and process-related information.
Ensure compliance with UK food legislation, retailer codes of practice and customer requirements.
Support audits and provide specification-related documentation when required.
- Artwork Approval
- Coordinate artwork approval through the business.
Verify artwork against approved specifications and legal labelling requirements.
- Collate stakeholder feedback and communicate revisions to artwork suppliers.
- Approve pack copy and outer case labels to ensure compliance.
- Cross-Functional Support
- Work closely with Technical, NPD, Procurement and Packaging teams to gather and validate product information.
- Support product launches by ensuring specification and artwork milestones are achieved.
- Attend project meetings and provide progress updates on specification completion.
- Continuous Improvement
- Monitor legislative, retailer and industry developments impacting product specifications and labelling.
- Identify opportunities to improve specification processes, systems and compliance controls.
- Share relevant regulatory updates with the wider business.
- The Right Person
Essential
Degree or equivalent qualification in Food Science, Food Technology or related discipline.
Minimum 2 years' experience within a food manufacturing technical or specifications role.
Knowledge of UK food labelling legislation.
Experience using retailer specification systems.
Strong attention to detail and data accuracy.
You'll also need excellent organisational and project management skills with strong communication and stakeholder management skills. Proficient in Microsoft Office applications.
Desirable
- Experience in bakery manufacturing.
- Knowledge of BRCGS Food Safety Standard.
- Experience with artwork approval systems.
- Understanding of HACCP principles.
- Experience working with major UK retailers.
Specifications Technologist employer: Associated British Foods
Allied Mills is an exceptional employer located in Trafford Park, Manchester, offering a supportive work culture that prioritises safety and employee well-being. With competitive benefits such as a generous pension plan, family-friendly policies, and opportunities for personal growth, employees are encouraged to thrive both professionally and personally. The company fosters a sense of community through initiatives like peer awards and an employee assistance programme, making it a rewarding place to build a career as a Class 1 LGV Driver.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Specifications Technologist
✨Join Food Science Communities
Get involved in food science forums and communities, both online and offline. Platforms like LinkedIn Groups or Reddit can be goldmines for job leads and valuable insights. Plus, you’ll connect with other food enthusiasts who might even point you towards openings at companies like Associated British Foods.
✨Attend Industry Conferences and Workshops
Check out exhibitions and workshops in the food science sector. Events like the International Congress on Food Technology are not just knowledge hubs, but also great networking opportunities. You never know who you might bump into – perhaps a hiring manager from Associated British Foods!
✨Show Off Your Passion for Food Tech
Start a blog or social media channel showcasing innovative food science projects or trends. This not only showcases your expertise but also raises your visibility in the field. When you apply for a role at companies like Associated British Foods, they’ll see you’re proactive and truly passionate about food technology.
✨Leverage University Career Services
If you're fresh out of uni, make use of your career services! They often have exclusive job boards and connections with companies looking for graduates. Don't forget to mention your interest in roles like those at Associated British Foods, and they might have insider tips or referrals just for you!
We think you need these skills to ace Specifications Technologist
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Relevant Projects:When applying for a role in food science and technology at Associated British Foods, make sure to highlight any relevant projects or research you've worked on. Whether it’s a dissertation, a lab experiment, or a product development idea, detail these experiences to demonstrate your hands-on skills in the field—employers love to see practical applications of your knowledge!
Highlight Technical Skills:In the food science and technology industry, technical skills are key. Be sure to list any specific skills you have related to food safety, quality control, or food processing technologies on your CV. Also, mention any software or analytical tools you’re proficient in, as this shows you're ready to hit the ground running at Associated British Foods.
Tailor Your Cover Letter:As this is a full-time position, your cover letter should convey not just why you want the job, but also how you fit into the company's vision. Talk about your passion for food science and how your background uniquely positions you to contribute to Associated British Foods. Make it personal and compelling!
Include Certifications:If you have any certifications related to food science, safety, or technology, be sure to mention them. These can really set you apart from other candidates! List them prominently on your CV and discuss how they relate to the role at Associated British Foods. It shows you're committed to your professional development.
How to prepare for a job interview at Associated British Foods
✨Know Your Lab Tech!
Given that you’re diving into food science and technology, brush up on the specific technologies and lab equipment mentioned in the job description. Familiarising yourself with tools like gas chromatography or texture analyzers will show that you’re serious about the technical side of things.
✨Show Off Your Project Experience
Prepare to discuss any relevant projects or research you've undertaken in food science. Whether it’s developing a new recipe, conducting taste tests, or analysing nutritional content, having tangible examples can really show off your expertise and passion for the field.
✨Emphasise Your Soft Skills
Don't underestimate the importance of teamwork and communication in food science roles. Be ready to highlight instances where you’ve effectively collaborated with others or communicated complex scientific ideas clearly. This can make a huge difference in landing that full-time gig!
✨Stay Up-to-Date with Industry Trends
Make sure you’re clued up about the latest trends in food science and technology — think sustainability, food safety, and innovative processing techniques. Discussing these topics during your interview can demonstrate your enthusiasm for the field and how you can contribute to Associated British Foods’s mission.
