At a Glance
- Tasks: Support product development from concept to prototype, tackling technical challenges along the way.
- Company: Join a leading company focused on innovation and sustainability in the food industry.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, health plans, generous leave, and training opportunities.
- Other info: Diverse and inclusive workplace with excellent career growth potential.
- Why this job: Be part of a team that drives brand strategies and creates impactful products.
- Qualifications: Solid technical skills and a collaborative mindset are essential.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Role Overview: Senior Product Development Associate – Savoury Category – is an important role responsible for supporting in the development of protocepts to prototypes to fit with concepts that will drive brand strategies. The role works with cross‑functional teams to bring technical briefs to reality and supports the Head of Innovation in the delivery of an ambitious and transformational breakthrough product strategy aligned to the company’s growth ambition and sustainability aspirations.
Key Deliverables:
- Support delivery of technical concepts into product development.
- Support in the development of solutions to technical hurdles.
- Provide a technical response to the commercial brief.
- Deliver bench samples and support/lead pilot and factory trials.
- Ensure costs are managed in line with trial budgets and project plans.
Responsibilities:
The incumbent will work very closely with counterparts across the Central Innovation & Technology team to develop protocepts and prototypes aligned to growth areas and brand strategies, build internal cross‑functional relationships, collaborate with suppliers, capture and share best practices, and build knowledge and expertise.
Qualifications:
- Solid core technical skills.
- Ability to understand the needs of the business, consumers and customers.
- Competent and skilled at working across cultures and functions.
- Collaborative mindset to deliver with others.
Benefits:
- Annual Incentive Plan (AIP).
- Health Cash Plan, Private medical insurance (if eligible by grade).
- Enhanced parental leave and phased return‑to‑work programme.
- Pension scheme, life assurance cover upon enrolment.
- 25 days + bank holidays.
- Holiday Enhancement Scheme, volunteering day per year, cycle to work scheme.
- Discounted gym membership (Carlisle and Chiswick).
- Discount and cashback scheme for major high street brands, supermarkets and services.
- Employee Assistance Programme and financial wellbeing support.
- Access to training and development opportunities.
Accessibility:
The Chiswick site provides step‑free access, accessible entrances and lifts between floors to support individuals with mobility needs, and reasonable accommodation will be provided for persons with disabilities.
Equal Opportunity Employer: pladis is an equal opportunity employer committed to hiring a diverse workforce. All openings will be filled based on qualifications without regard to race, colour, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, marital status, veteran status, disability, age, religion or any other classification protected by law.
Junior Product Development Scientist employer: pladis Foods Limited
At pladis, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, particularly for the Junior Product Development Scientist role at our Chiswick site. Our collaborative work culture fosters innovation and creativity, while our commitment to employee growth is evident through extensive training opportunities and a supportive environment. With a range of benefits including a Health Cash Plan, enhanced parental leave, and a focus on sustainability, we ensure that our employees are well taken care of both personally and professionally.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Junior Product Development Scientist
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, attend events, and connect with professionals on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can refer you directly.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its products. Understand their brand strategies and sustainability goals so you can show how your skills align with their vision. We want you to shine!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your technical responses! Be ready to discuss how you've tackled challenges in product development before. Use examples that highlight your collaborative mindset and ability to work across functions.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search.
We think you need these skills to ace Junior Product Development Scientist
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight how your skills align with the Junior Product Development Scientist role. We want to see how you can support the development of protocepts and prototypes, so don’t hold back on showcasing relevant experiences!
Showcase Your Technical Skills:Since solid core technical skills are essential for this position, be sure to include specific examples of your technical expertise. We love seeing how you’ve tackled technical hurdles in the past, so share those stories with us!
Highlight Collaboration Experience:This role involves working closely with cross-functional teams, so let us know about your collaborative experiences. Whether it’s working with suppliers or building internal relationships, we want to hear how you’ve successfully worked with others to achieve goals.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website for the best chance of getting noticed. It’s the easiest way for us to keep track of your application and ensure it reaches the right people. Don’t miss out on this opportunity!
How to prepare for a job interview at pladis Foods Limited
✨Know Your Technical Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your core technical skills relevant to product development. Be ready to discuss how you can translate technical briefs into tangible products, as this role heavily relies on understanding the technical aspects of product development.
✨Understand the Brand Strategy
Familiarise yourself with the company's brand strategies and growth ambitions. During the interview, demonstrate how your ideas and experiences align with their goals, especially in terms of sustainability and innovation.
✨Show Your Collaborative Spirit
This role requires working closely with cross-functional teams. Be prepared to share examples of how you've successfully collaborated with others in the past, highlighting your ability to build relationships and work across cultures.
✨Prepare for Problem-Solving Questions
Expect questions about overcoming technical hurdles in product development. Think of specific challenges you've faced and how you approached them, showcasing your problem-solving skills and ability to deliver under pressure.
