NPD Technologist

Reference: 4825749Job ID: 5413552Posted: 2026-09-08Closing date: 2026-12-06Location: NewtownardsSalary: Competitive DOE (per annum)Job type: PermanentWorking pattern: Full timeIndustry: Manufacturing & Production / ManufacturingCompany: HaysConsultant: Graham SquirrellHays office: Portadown — 1st Floor, Unit 11c, McGowan West Shopping Centre, West StreetPhone: +44 333 010 2485Email: graham.squirrell@hays.comYour new company A well established food manufacturing business in the Newtownards area is seeking an NPD Technologist to join its growing Innovation team. This is an exciting opportunity to become part of a business focused on driving product innovation and sustainable growth through the development of new and improved food products. Working within a fast paced environment, you will play a key role in bringing innovative concepts from idea through to launch.Your new role As NPD Technologist, you will support the development of new and existing products from concept through to commercial launch. This role has a strong culinary focus, making it ideal for candidates with hands-on food preparation, chef or culinary development experience who are looking to build a career within food manufacturing innovation.You will be involved in recipe development, kitchen sample preparation, benchmarking, product tastings, ingredient sourcing and factory trials, working closely with internal teams to ensure products are delivered in line with customer expectations, process capabilities and legal requirements. You will also support specification preparation, product costing and process optimisation initiatives while maintaining accurate records throughout the development life cycle.What you'll need to succeed Previous experience within NPD, food development or a culinary/chef-based roleFood-related qualification (Degree/HND) or relevant industry experience Passion for food innovation, recipe development and product creationKnowledge of food processing, HACCP and food safety principlesStrong communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to work cross-functionallyCreative mindset with a practical approach to problem-solving and continuous improvementStrong organisational and project management skillsEntry-level candidates with relevant culinary NPD experience and a strong desire to learn are encouraged to applyWhat you'll get in return Opportunity to develop your career within a growing and innovative NPD functionHands-on involvement in the full product development lifecycle from concept through to launch Strong exposure to recipe development, factory trials, customer projects and food innovation Monday-Friday working pattern (9:00am-5:00pm) with flexibility where required Supportive team environment with excellent opportunities for learning and developmentOpportunity to work with a wide range of ingredients, flavours and new product conceptsCompetitive salary package and long term career progression opportunities within food manufacturing innovationWhat you need to do now If you're interested in this role, click 'apply now' to forward an up-to-date copy of your CV, or call us now. If this job isn't quite right for you, but you are looking for a new position, please contact us for a confidential discussion about your career. #4825749 - Graham Squirrell