At a Glance
- Tasks: Create innovative food products from concept to launch, collaborating with diverse teams.
- Company: Leading international food manufacturer focused on innovation and sustainability.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, career development, and exposure to breakthrough technologies.
- Other info: Fast-paced environment with opportunities for global collaboration.
- Why this job: Join a dynamic team and make a real impact in food innovation.
- Qualifications: Experience in product development and strong analytical skills required.
The predicted salary is between 35000 - 45000 £ per year.
We are partnering with a leading international food manufacturer operating across highly competitive FMCG markets. The business is continuing to invest heavily in innovation, sustainability, product transformation and future-focused technologies, with a strong emphasis on delivering category-leading products that meet evolving consumer and customer expectations.
This is an exciting opportunity for a Product Development / Innovation professional to join a global innovation and technology team focused on delivering breakthrough product development projects from concept through to pilot and factory trial stage. The successful candidate will support the delivery of an ambitious innovation pipeline, working closely with cross-functional teams to translate commercial and consumer insights into technically viable product solutions.
Key Responsibilities- Develop recipes and product concepts in line with technical and commercial briefs
- Support the creation and delivery of innovative product solutions aligned to consumer trends and business growth objectives
- Prepare bench samples and support pilot plant and factory trials
- Assist in overcoming technical development challenges through structured problem-solving and experimentation
- Work closely with ingredient and equipment suppliers to identify new materials, technologies and processes
- Conduct analytical and technical assessments including texture, rheology and product performance evaluation
- Analyse trial data and provide recommendations for next development stages
- Support the completion of technical documentation including specifications, quality attributes and project records
- Ensure projects are delivered in line with agreed quality, cost and timeline expectations
- Collaborate with commercial, operations, technical and regional teams to support innovation delivery across multiple markets
- Contribute to sustainability, reformulation and continuous improvement initiatives
- Maintain safe and hygienic working standards within development and trial environments
- Experience within Product Development, NPD or Innovation in FMCG or food manufacturing
- Strong understanding of product development processes from concept through to launch
- Experience supporting factory trials and pilot plant activities
- Comfortable working cross-functionally within fast-paced manufacturing environments
- Strong technical and analytical skills with the ability to interpret trial and product data
- Understanding of ingredients, formulations and food processing technologies
- Organised with good project management and documentation skills
- Able to work collaboratively with internal teams and external suppliers
- Passion for food innovation, consumer trends and continuous improvement
- Experience within ambient food products
- Knowledge of texture analysis, rheology or ingredient functionality
- Experience supporting sustainability or reformulation projects
- Exposure to global or multi-site product development projects
- Opportunity to work on high-profile innovation projects
- Exposure to global product development and breakthrough technologies
- Collaborative and fast-paced innovation environment
- Career development opportunities within a large international food business
- Competitive salary and benefits package
Product Development Technologist - Food Manufacturing employer: Protea Recruitment Ltd
As a leading international food manufacturer based in Buckinghamshire, we pride ourselves on fostering a dynamic and collaborative work culture that champions innovation and sustainability. Our commitment to employee growth is evident through our extensive career development opportunities, allowing you to work on high-profile projects that shape the future of food. Join us to be part of a forward-thinking team where your passion for food innovation can thrive in a supportive environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Product Development Technologist - Food Manufacturing
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to industry professionals on LinkedIn or attend food manufacturing events. We can’t stress enough how valuable personal connections are in landing that Product Development Technologist role.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your passion for food innovation! When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, share your ideas on current trends and how they could apply to their products. It’s all about making a memorable impression!
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on technical knowledge related to product development processes. We recommend having examples ready of how you've tackled challenges in past projects—this will showcase your problem-solving skills!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search!
We think you need these skills to ace Product Development Technologist - Food Manufacturing
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that align with the Product Development Technologist role. Highlight any relevant experience in food manufacturing, product development, or innovation to catch our eye!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you're passionate about food innovation and how your background makes you a perfect fit for our team. Be sure to mention any specific projects or achievements that showcase your skills.
Showcase Your Technical Skills:Since this role involves a lot of technical work, don’t shy away from detailing your analytical skills and experience with product trials. Let us know how you've tackled challenges in past projects and what tools or methods you used.
Apply Through Our Website:We love it when candidates apply directly through our website! It helps us keep track of applications and ensures you get the best experience. Plus, it shows us you're genuinely interested in joining our innovative team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Protea Recruitment Ltd
✨Know Your Ingredients
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of ingredients, formulations, and food processing technologies. Being able to discuss how different ingredients can impact product development will show that you're not just passionate about food innovation, but also technically savvy.
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills
Prepare examples of how you've tackled technical challenges in previous roles. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers, highlighting your analytical skills and ability to experiment effectively.
✨Understand Consumer Trends
Familiarise yourself with current consumer trends in the food industry. Be ready to discuss how these trends can influence product development and how you can contribute to creating innovative solutions that align with market demands.
✨Collaborate Like a Pro
Since this role involves working closely with cross-functional teams, think of examples where you've successfully collaborated with others. Emphasise your communication skills and how you can bridge gaps between technical and commercial teams to drive innovation.
