At a Glance
- Tasks: Support innovation in product development and create prototypes for exciting new savoury snacks.
- Company: Join pladis, a global leader in biscuits and confectionery with a focus on sustainability.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, health plans, generous leave, and opportunities for personal growth.
- Other info: Work in a vibrant environment with excellent career progression and a commitment to diversity.
- Why this job: Be part of a team that drives innovation and makes a real impact on product development.
- Qualifications: Solid technical skills and experience in cross-functional collaboration are essential.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Join pladis, an ambitious global biscuits and confectionery business. We are looking for entrepreneurial spirits to support innovation in the Savoury category.
This senior role supports the head of innovation in delivering an ambitious breakthrough product strategy aligned with the company’s growth ambition and sustainability aspirations. The role works cross‑functionally to develop technical concepts, translate protocepts into prototypes, manage technical briefs, and lead pilot and factory trials.
Key Deliverables
- Deliver product development technical concepts into prototypes that support brand strategies.
- Provide solutions to technical hurdles.
- Prepare technical responses to commercial briefs.
- Deliver bench samples and lead pilot and factory trials.
- Manage costs within trial budgets and project plans.
- Support the medium‑to‑long‑term innovation roadmap focusing on sustainability and productivity.
- Build cross‑functional relationships with suppliers, regional teams and internal partners.
Essential Qualifications
- Solid core technical skills with the ability to understand business, consumer and customer needs.
- Experience working across cultures and functions to deliver projects.
- Ability to collaborate with internal and external stakeholders and manage technical briefs.
- Knowledge of product innovation, sustainability practices and cost management.
Benefits
- Annual Incentive Plan (AIP)
- Health Cash Plan and private medical insurance (if eligible)
- Enhanced parental leave and phased return‑to‑work programme
- Stakeholder Pension Scheme and life assurance cover upon enrolment
- 25 days + bank holidays
- Holiday Enhancement Scheme
- 1 volunteering day per year and cycle‑to‑work scheme
- Discounted gym membership (Carlisle and Chiswick only)
- Discount and cashback scheme for major high‑street brands and supermarkets
- Employee Assistance Programme and financial wellbeing support
- Access to training and development opportunities
Location
MIU Campus, Chiswick Park, West London – 5 minute walk from Gunnersbury Station.
Equal Opportunity
pladis is an equal‑opportunity employer. All openings will be filled on the basis of 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.
Accessibility: The Chiswick site has step‑free access and lifts to support individuals with mobility needs. Reasonable accommodation will be provided where possible.
Junior Product Development Scientist employer: pladis Global
At pladis, we pride ourselves on being an excellent employer that fosters innovation and collaboration in the heart of West London. Our vibrant work culture encourages entrepreneurial spirits to thrive, offering extensive benefits such as a Health Cash Plan, enhanced parental leave, and access to training and development opportunities. With a strong focus on sustainability and employee wellbeing, we provide a supportive environment where you can grow your career while making a meaningful impact in the biscuits and confectionery industry.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Junior Product Development Scientist
✨Join Food Science Communities
Get involved in food science forums and communities, both online and offline. Platforms like LinkedIn Groups or Reddit can be goldmines for job leads and valuable insights. Plus, you’ll connect with other food enthusiasts who might even point you towards openings at companies like pladis Global.
✨Attend Industry Conferences and Workshops
Check out exhibitions and workshops in the food science sector. Events like the International Congress on Food Technology are not just knowledge hubs, but also great networking opportunities. You never know who you might bump into – perhaps a hiring manager from pladis Global!
✨Show Off Your Passion for Food Tech
Start a blog or social media channel showcasing innovative food science projects or trends. This not only showcases your expertise but also raises your visibility in the field. When you apply for a role at companies like pladis Global, they’ll see you’re proactive and truly passionate about food technology.
✨Leverage University Career Services
If you're fresh out of uni, make use of your career services! They often have exclusive job boards and connections with companies looking for graduates. Don't forget to mention your interest in roles like those at pladis Global, and they might have insider tips or referrals just for you!
We think you need these skills to ace Junior Product Development Scientist
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Relevant Projects:When applying for a role in food science and technology at pladis Global, make sure to highlight any relevant projects or research you've worked on. Whether it’s a dissertation, a lab experiment, or a product development idea, detail these experiences to demonstrate your hands-on skills in the field—employers love to see practical applications of your knowledge!
Highlight Technical Skills:In the food science and technology industry, technical skills are key. Be sure to list any specific skills you have related to food safety, quality control, or food processing technologies on your CV. Also, mention any software or analytical tools you’re proficient in, as this shows you're ready to hit the ground running at pladis Global.
Tailor Your Cover Letter:As this is a full-time position, your cover letter should convey not just why you want the job, but also how you fit into the company's vision. Talk about your passion for food science and how your background uniquely positions you to contribute to pladis Global. Make it personal and compelling!
Include Certifications:If you have any certifications related to food science, safety, or technology, be sure to mention them. These can really set you apart from other candidates! List them prominently on your CV and discuss how they relate to the role at pladis Global. It shows you're committed to your professional development.
How to prepare for a job interview at pladis Global
✨Know Your Lab Tech!
Given that you’re diving into food science and technology, brush up on the specific technologies and lab equipment mentioned in the job description. Familiarising yourself with tools like gas chromatography or texture analyzers will show that you’re serious about the technical side of things.
✨Show Off Your Project Experience
Prepare to discuss any relevant projects or research you've undertaken in food science. Whether it’s developing a new recipe, conducting taste tests, or analysing nutritional content, having tangible examples can really show off your expertise and passion for the field.
✨Emphasise Your Soft Skills
Don't underestimate the importance of teamwork and communication in food science roles. Be ready to highlight instances where you’ve effectively collaborated with others or communicated complex scientific ideas clearly. This can make a huge difference in landing that full-time gig!
✨Stay Up-to-Date with Industry Trends
Make sure you’re clued up about the latest trends in food science and technology — think sustainability, food safety, and innovative processing techniques. Discussing these topics during your interview can demonstrate your enthusiasm for the field and how you can contribute to pladis Global’s mission.
