At a Glance
- Tasks: Run daily lab operations, conduct coffee testing, and support product development.
- Company: Join Costa Coffee, a leader in reimagining coffee experiences worldwide.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, share ownership, bonuses, and discounts at Costa stores.
- Other info: Work in a fast-paced, hands-on environment with great career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Be part of a dynamic team shaping the future of coffee innovation.
- Qualifications: Strong coffee knowledge and experience in a lab or production environment.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
In over 50 countries, Costa Coffee is reimagining coffee experiences as a key part of the Coca‑Cola System. In our Basildon laboratory you will support product quality, innovation and consistency across Costa production sites. The Coffee Laboratory Technician is accountable for the day-to-day running of laboratory operations and research activities to ensure all coffee testing and product development aligns with Costa's quality standards and innovation goals.
We value diversity, equity and inclusion and provide opportunities for career development.
What you’ll do:
- Run daily laboratory operations, including sample handling, equipment setup, cleaning and calibration to maintain a safe and efficient environment.
- Conduct coffee testing across green, roasted, and finished products using defined methods to ensure consistent quality standards.
- Lead and support sensory (cupping) sessions, accurately capturing tasting data to inform product decisions.
- Maintain accurate records and data systems, ensuring full traceability of samples, testing and results.
- Support product development and continuous improvement by preparing samples, identifying insights and following quality, safety and food standards.
Who you are:
- Strong knowledge of coffee (green, roasted and ground), including roasting, production processes and sensory principles.
- Proven experience working in a coffee laboratory, production or similar environment, including hands‑on testing and sample handling.
- Excellent sensory (cupping) ability, with confidence in evaluating coffee quality and interpreting test results.
- Highly organised with strong attention to detail, able to accurately manage data, records and laboratory processes.
- Strong communication and teamwork skills, with the ability to work collaboratively in a technical environment and follow safety and quality standards.
Benefits and Perks:
- Own a piece of Costa’s success by becoming a share owner in Coca‑Cola with our Share Investment Plan (SIP).
- An annual discretionary bonus scheme, based on business results and individual contribution.
- A smart pension that saves you money on tax and national insurance, and matches your contributions up to 10%.
- The Costa Financial Support Fund, supporting team members who find themselves in unexpected financial pressure.
- 50% discount in all Costa‑owned stores, and 25% off in other participating stores.
- Private medical cover thanks to our Private Healthcare scheme.
Where you’ll work:
This role is based full‑time at our Basildon Roastery, where you’ll be at the heart of our coffee craft five days a week, working closely with our expert teams in a fast‑paced, hands‑on environment.
Coffee Lab Technician: Quality, Sensory & Innovation in Basildon employer: Costa Coffee
At Costa Coffee, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture that champions diversity, equity, and inclusion. Located in Basildon, our Coffee Lab Technician role provides unique opportunities for professional growth within a dynamic team dedicated to innovation and quality in coffee production. With benefits like a share ownership plan, generous discounts, and private medical cover, we ensure our employees feel valued and supported in their career journey.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Coffee Lab Technician: Quality, Sensory & Innovation in Basildon
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company inside out! Research Costa Coffee's values, products, and recent innovations. This will help you tailor your conversations and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with current or former employees on LinkedIn. Ask them about their experiences and any tips they might have for landing a role at Costa. Personal connections can make a huge difference!
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for hands-on assessments! Since this role involves practical testing and sensory evaluations, practice your cupping skills and be ready to demonstrate your knowledge of coffee during interviews or assessments.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the Costa team. Don’t forget to follow up after applying to express your enthusiasm!
We think you need these skills to ace Coffee Lab Technician: Quality, Sensory & Innovation in Basildon
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Coffee:When you're writing your application, let your love for coffee shine through! Share any experiences you've had with coffee, whether it's tasting, brewing, or working in a lab. We want to see that you’re not just qualified, but genuinely excited about the world of coffee.
Be Specific About Your Experience:Make sure to highlight your hands-on experience in a coffee lab or similar environment. We’re looking for details on your testing methods, sample handling, and any sensory sessions you've led. The more specific you are, the better we can see how you fit into our team!
Keep It Organised and Clear:Your application should be as organised as you are! Use clear headings, bullet points, and concise language to make it easy for us to read. Remember, attention to detail is key in this role, so show us you’ve got it right from the start.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re keen to join the Costa family!
How to prepare for a job interview at Costa Coffee
✨Know Your Coffee Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on your coffee knowledge, especially about green, roasted, and ground coffee. Be prepared to discuss roasting processes and sensory principles, as this will show your passion and expertise in the field.
✨Demonstrate Your Lab Skills
Since the role involves daily laboratory operations, be ready to talk about your hands-on experience with sample handling and equipment setup. Share specific examples of how you've maintained a safe and efficient lab environment in the past.
✨Show Off Your Sensory Skills
Cupping sessions are a big part of this job, so highlight your sensory evaluation abilities. Bring along any data or results from previous cupping sessions to demonstrate your confidence in evaluating coffee quality.
✨Be Organised and Detail-Oriented
Costa values accuracy in data management, so come prepared to discuss how you keep records and ensure traceability of samples. Mention any systems or methods you use to stay organised and maintain high-quality standards.
