At a Glance
- Tasks: Support R&D projects by coordinating kitchen activities and managing sample logistics.
- Company: Join KP Snacks, a vibrant team creating the snacks you love across 30+ countries.
- Benefits: Enjoy comprehensive healthcare, a pension plan, 25 days holiday, and exclusive online perks.
- Why this job: Be part of a creative team where your ideas matter and growth is celebrated.
- Qualifications: Passion for food science or STEM; strong communication and organisational skills required.
- Other info: Diversity is key; we welcome unique perspectives and encourage all to apply.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 42000 £ per year.
Billingham / Tanfield (flexibility required between both sites) On-site
Join our snack-loving team! We are looking for a Development Technician to join our team at KP Snacks. Our R&D team is the creative engine behind KP Snacks, innovating to bring delicious, exciting, and high-quality snacks to our consumers. From developing new flavours and formats to improving existing recipes, this team uses consumer insights, market trends, and technical expertise to ensure our products continually surprise and delight snack lovers everywhere.
The Development Technician supports projects led by the Development Technologist or Manager by coordinating all development kitchen activities. This includes working with suppliers and internal departments to ensure customer requirements are met and that products are ready for successful factory production.
What’s in it for you?
- Comprehensive Healthcare Support – Access to a Medicash Health Cash Plan, including a Digital GP service, Best Doctors (Second Medical Opinion Service), and specialist Cancer Care for peace of mind when you need it most.
- KP Pension Plan - contribution matching up to 7% of your salary
- 25 days holiday + holiday buy scheme
- KP4ME - online benefits, discounts, prizes, competitions and information platform with access to mental, physical and financial wellbeing information and tools
What will you be doing?
- Coordinate and support bench and factory trials, ensuring seamless execution from planning through to first production runs.
- Tackle the exciting challenge of managing sample logistics, from kitchen prep to timely delivery, keeping everything traceable and presentation-ready.
- Work closely with cross-functional teams – including Operations, Sales, Marketing, and R&D – to align projects and maintain clear communication.
- Drive real impact by ensuring trial activities run smoothly, supporting the launch of high-quality products that meet commercial and technical standards.
- Gain valuable hands-on experience with systems like JDE and Optiva, while deepening your knowledge of manufacturing processes and product development.
Who are we?
We are KP Snacks, proud to be part of the Intersnack family. Picture this: over 15,000 of us, spread across more than 30 countries, all working together to create the snacks you love. Here in the UK, we are about 2,400 strong, spread across seven factories and our Slough HQ. We believe in speaking our minds, celebrating our differences, and pushing boundaries together. Diversity isn’t just a buzzword for us. We are on a mission to create a workplace where everyone belongs.
We’d love to hear from you if you can demonstrate the following knowledge, skills and experience:
- Bring your passion for food science, technology, or STEM – your academic background will help you thrive in this dynamic environment.
- Use your strong communication, organisational, and IT skills to contribute meaningfully to team projects and cross-functional collaboration.
- If you’ve had hands-on experience in R&D labs, FMCG, or food production environments, your transferable skills will be highly valued.
- Experience with seasonings, ambient products, or pilot trials is a bonus – but don’t worry if you haven’t ticked every box; we still encourage you to apply.
- If you’re proactive, adaptable, and committed to working collaboratively while championing food safety, continuous improvement, and positive relationships – you’ll fit right in with KP’s values and behaviours.
Development Technician employer: KP Snacks
Contact Detail:
KP Snacks Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Development Technician
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with KP Snacks' product range and recent innovations. Understanding their current offerings and any new flavours or formats they’ve launched will help you engage in meaningful conversations during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the food science and R&D sectors. Attend industry events or join relevant online forums to connect with people who might provide insights into the role and the company culture at KP Snacks.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your hands-on experience in R&D labs or food production environments. Be ready to share specific examples of projects you've worked on, particularly those that involved collaboration across different teams.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your passion for food science and technology by staying updated on market trends and consumer preferences. This knowledge can help you demonstrate your enthusiasm and readiness to contribute to KP Snacks’ innovative projects.
We think you need these skills to ace Development Technician
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in food science, technology, or R&D. Emphasise any hands-on experience you have in labs or food production environments, as this will resonate with KP Snacks.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your passion for food innovation and how your skills align with the role of Development Technician. Mention specific examples of past projects or experiences that demonstrate your ability to contribute to the team.
Showcase Communication Skills: Since the role involves cross-functional collaboration, highlight your strong communication and organisational skills. Provide examples of how you've successfully worked with different teams in previous roles.
Research KP Snacks: Familiarise yourself with KP Snacks' products and values. Understanding their commitment to innovation and quality will help you tailor your application and show genuine interest in being part of their team.
How to prepare for a job interview at KP Snacks
✨Show Your Passion for Food Science
Make sure to express your enthusiasm for food science and technology during the interview. Share any relevant experiences or projects that highlight your passion, as this role is all about innovation in snacks.
✨Demonstrate Strong Communication Skills
Since the role involves working closely with cross-functional teams, be prepared to discuss how you've effectively communicated in past projects. Use specific examples to illustrate your ability to collaborate and keep everyone aligned.
✨Highlight Relevant Experience
If you have hands-on experience in R&D labs or food production environments, make sure to bring it up. Discuss any specific projects or trials you've been involved in, especially those related to seasonings or ambient products.
✨Be Proactive and Adaptable
KP Snacks values proactivity and adaptability. Prepare to share examples of how you've tackled challenges in previous roles and how you can contribute to continuous improvement within the team.