Junior Product Developer

British American Tobacco UK has an exciting opportunity for a Junior Product Developer in Southampton

What are the key objectives and expectations from this role?

Product/process development – contribute to extract blend development and improvement of products, processes, or technologies under guidance of senior team members.

To support project activities – assist in planning, conducting and documenting experiments, tests, and analyses. Responsible for data collection and analysis- gather, organise, and analyse data to draw meaningful conclusions.

Collaboration – work closely with cross functional teams to align research goals with business objectives.

What is the direct impact of this role on the team or organization?

This role will provide for the team enhanced efficiency by handling foundational development/ research tasks, data analysis and documentation. A fresh perspective by bringing new ideas, creativity, and innovative approaches. Stronger collaboration by fostering teamwork and ensuring seamless execution of projects through active support and engagement.

Your key responsibilities will include:

• Operational Support for R&D – Assist in the establishment of extract blending capabilities, blend development approach, prototype testing to achieve desired sensory attributes, inventory, and specification management.

• Project Monitoring & Reporting – Track breakthroughs, collect and analyse data, and prepare status updates for partners.

• Administrative & Organizational Support – Manage documentation, coordinate meetings, and oversee resource allocation for R&D projects.

• Communication & Stakeholder Coordination – Act as a liaison between teams, facilitate internal and external communication, and prepare necessary materials.

• Research & Information Gathering – Collect technical data, ensure compliance with internal guidelines and regulatory requirements.

• Quality & Compliance Assistance – Ensure adherence to company policies, quality standards, and intellectual property regulations.

• Continuous Improvement – Identify inefficiencies in workflows and suggest process optimizations., We’re one of the few companies named as a Global Top Employer by the Top Employers Institute – certified in offering excellent employee conditions.

At BAT, we champion collaboration, inclusion, and partnership as the bedrock of our values. We wish to foster an environment where every individual can thrive, irrespective of factors such as gender, sexual orientation, marital or civil partnership status, gender reassignment, race, religion or belief, colour, nationality, ethnic or national origin, disability, age, skills, experience, education, socio-economic and professional background, as well as diverse perspectives and thinking styles. We recognise that our strength lies in embracing talent from all walks of life, empowering us to develop our culture of inclusivity and better achieve our business objectives.

We view career breaks not as obstacles but as opportunities and encourage everyone, without hesitation, to apply. Through our Global Returners program, we provide support to professionals seeking to re-enter the workforce after an extended absence, be it for family care, parental leave, national service, sabbatical, or starting their own venture.

Come bring your difference and see what is possible for you at BAT. Learn more about our culture and our award winning employee experience .

We take pride in being a Disability Confident Employer. If you need any reasonable adjustments or accommodations to be made during the recruitment process to support you performing at your best, please inform the recruitment partner who will be in touch should your profile be selected for the role you applied for. We are wholeheartedly committed to optimising your prospects of success by making suitable arrangements so that you may showcase your full potential.

• Proven experience in project coordination and product research.

• Knowledge of Tobacco or other agricultural goods such as tea, cannabis etc. and related products.

• General understanding of manufacturing processes.

• Effective communication skills and ability to work cross-functionally.

• Good strategic thinking, analysing critical factors and variables to influence long-term project success.

• Resilient, flexible, and confident to work in a fast-paced, dynamic, and ambiguous environment.

• Ability to identify and improve key opportunities for intellectual property.

• Bachelor or MSc in Agronomy, Biology, Biotechnology, Biochemistry, Microbiology, Chemical Engineering, Food Science, Food Technology

Qualifying questions for applicants

• Do you have experience working in Product Development, specifically working with formulations?

• Do you have experience working collaboratively / managing projects between R&D and operations?

• Are you familiar with extraction technologies. Specifically blending of extract products?

What we offer you?

• We offer a market leading annual performance bonus (subject to eligibility)

• Our range of benefits varies by country and includes diverse health plans, initiatives for work-life balance, transportation support, and a flexible holiday plan with additional incentives

• Your journey with us isn’t limited by boundaries; it’s propelled by your aspirations. Join us at BAT and become a part of an environment that thrives on internal advancement, where your career progression isn’t just a statement – it’s a reality we’re eager to build together. Seize the opportunity and own your development; your next chapter starts here.

• You’ll have access to online learning platforms and personalized growth programs to nurture your leadership skills

• We prioritise continuous improvement within a transformative environment, preparing for ongoing changes