At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our R&D team to innovate and improve dairy products while gaining hands-on experience.
- Company: Premier Foods is a leading British food company with iconic brands like Ambrosia.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, annual leave, pension scheme, and employee perks like a cycle to work scheme.
- Other info: This apprenticeship offers a unique blend of academic learning and practical experience in food science.
- Why this job: Shape the future of beloved British brands while learning from industry experts in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Must have 3 GCSEs at grade 4/C or above, including Maths, Science, and English.
Apprentice Research & Development Dairy Technologist | Premier Foods, Lifton
Level 5 Dairy Technologist apprenticeship
1st Year Salary: £23,809 per annum
5 Weeks Annual Leave + Bank Holidays
Interviews w/c 4th August 2025 for programme start in September 2025
Are you passionate about food and science? Do you want to help shape the future of iconic British brands like Ambrosia? We’re looking for an enthusiastic Apprentice Dairy Technologist to join our expert Research & Development team at our Lifton site based in Devon.
This is a unique opportunity to start or expand your career in food science, gaining hands-on experience and formal qualifications while contributing to the development of dairy products enjoyed across the UK.
What You’ll Be Doing:
As an apprentice, you’ll work towards completing the Level 5 Dairy Technologist programme through Reaseheath College (on block release), combining academic learning with real-world experience in a development unit located within the Ambrosia Creamery.
Throughout the apprenticeship, you’ll build knowledge and hands-on skills in areas such as:
- Using a range of science-based techniques to research and fully understand the functionality of new and existing dairy-based ingredients and processes
- Participate in the implementation of opportunities to improve costs and quality of products and processes and other site initiatives
- Work with suppliers to come up with innovative solutions
- Support the wider development team and site team with knowledge of ingredient functionality and processes
- Support during factory trials and product launches
- Source, coordinate, and maintain adequate supplies of raw materials, ingredients, and key equipment as required.
- Ensure appropriate storage of finished products and accessibility of samples for sensory research, marketing/approval meetings, and sales force.
- Provide ingredient information and technical data for specifications, costings, labels as required.
- Operate Pilot Plant equipment as and when required.
- Ensure all samples for shelf-life evaluations are stored correctly, available for examination at key stages, and results are documented.
- Follow Good Manufacturing Practice and all necessary food product safety guidelines to ensure high quality trial samples
You’ll be supported by experienced professionals as you apply your learning to practical challenges, helping to ensure the safety and quality of our products.
What We’re Looking For:
- A minimum of 3 GCSEs (or equivalent) at grade 4/C or above, including Maths, Science, and English
- A scientific mindset, an ability to think outside the box, and a curious outlook (and a love of food doesn’t hurt!)
- Great attention to detail and a strong desire to learn
- Good communication skills and the ability to work well in a team
- A positive attitude and willingness to take on new challenges
- Aged 18 and above for travel reasons
What We Can Offer You:
- A competitive salary, increasing each year based on successful academic and practical progress
- Company pension scheme with life assurance
- Access to a range of employee benefits, including:
- Company shop
- Cycle to Work scheme
- Employee assistance programme
The Next Step...
If you’re ready to take a step into a career in food science and want to be part of a team that makes a real difference every day, click apply via our website and upload your CV.
A great British food company
Premier Foods is one of Britain’s biggest listed food companies, employing over 4,000 colleagues at 13 manufacturing sites and offices up and down the country.
Many of our brands have been part of UK life for more than a century and you’ll find them in 90% of British households.
At Premier Foods we believe in inclusion, authenticity, and individuality. We aim to ensure all existing and future colleagues are given equitable opportunities and are respected, valued, and encouraged to bring their true authentic selves to work no matter who they are, what they look like, who they love, or what they believe in. Our culture is one where everyone is welcome.
#J-18808-LjbffrR&D Apprentice - Desserts employer: Premier Foods
Premier Foods is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity for aspiring food scientists to kickstart their careers as an R&D Apprentice in the picturesque setting of Lifton, Devon. With a strong commitment to employee growth, you will receive hands-on experience alongside formal qualifications, all while being part of a supportive team that values inclusion and innovation. Enjoy competitive benefits, a positive work culture, and the chance to contribute to iconic British brands like Ambrosia, making a meaningful impact in the food industry.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land R&D Apprentice - Desserts
✨Tip Number 1
Research Premier Foods and their iconic brands like Ambrosia. Understanding their product range and values will help you align your passion for food and science with their mission, making you a more compelling candidate.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former employees of Premier Foods on platforms like LinkedIn. Engaging with them can provide insights into the company culture and the apprenticeship programme, which can be invaluable during interviews.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your scientific mindset and problem-solving skills. Think of examples from your studies or personal projects where you've applied these skills, as they are crucial for a role in R&D.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your enthusiasm for learning and teamwork. Be ready to share experiences where you've collaborated with others or taken on new challenges, as these qualities are highly valued in an apprenticeship setting.
We think you need these skills to ace R&D Apprentice - Desserts
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role:Read the job description thoroughly to understand what Premier Foods is looking for in an R&D Apprentice. Highlight key responsibilities and required skills that resonate with your own experiences.
Tailor Your CV:Customise your CV to reflect the skills and experiences relevant to the role. Emphasise any scientific background, teamwork experience, and your passion for food science to make a strong impression.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Write a cover letter that showcases your enthusiasm for the position and the company. Mention specific reasons why you want to work at Premier Foods and how your background aligns with their values and goals.
Proofread Your Application:Before submitting, carefully proofread your application materials for spelling and grammatical errors. A polished application reflects attention to detail, which is crucial for the role.
How to prepare for a job interview at Premier Foods
✨Show Your Passion for Food Science
Make sure to express your enthusiasm for food and science during the interview. Share any relevant experiences or projects that highlight your interest in dairy products and how they are developed.
✨Demonstrate Your Scientific Mindset
Prepare to discuss how you approach problem-solving and innovation. Think of examples where you've used scientific methods or critical thinking to overcome challenges, especially in a team setting.
✨Highlight Attention to Detail
Since this role requires precision, be ready to provide examples of how you've paid attention to detail in past experiences. This could be in school projects, previous jobs, or even personal hobbies related to food.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the apprenticeship programme and the company. This shows your genuine interest and helps you understand how you can contribute to the team and grow within the role.
