At a Glance
- Tasks: Support cheese grading activities and develop sensory assessment skills.
- Company: Join Saputo, a top global dairy processor with iconic British brands.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, bonuses, health care, and 25+ holidays.
- Other info: Inclusive culture with opportunities for growth and development.
- Why this job: Kickstart your career in a fun, specialised industry with a passion for cheese.
- Qualifications: Interest in food quality, attention to detail, and teamwork skills.
The predicted salary is between 25000 - 30000 £ per year.
At Saputo, we bring good to the table by making high-quality products, investing in our people, and supporting communities around the world. As a top 10 global dairy processor, we value contributions that matter and strive to foster an inclusive, growth-driven work environment.
ABOUT SAPUTO
Saputo Dairy UK are the company behind iconic British brands such as Cathedral City, Clover, Country Life, Frylight, Davidstow and Wensleydale—household names loved by millions. Saputo Dairy UK is part of Saputo Inc., a top ten global dairy company, offering the best of both worlds: the agility and warmth of a dedicated UK business with the support and resources of a global group. We pride ourselves on our inclusive, collaborative culture, where people are valued, supported and empowered to make a difference. Our commitment to sustainability, innovation and quality makes us a leader in the UK food industry. Saputo’s Nuneaton site is our centre of excellence for cheese cutting and packing for the nation’s favourite cheeses.
ABOUT THIS OPPORTUNITY
We're looking for a Junior Cheese Grader to join our centralised Trading and Cheese Grading team based at the Saputo Nuneaton site. The purpose of the Junior Cheese Grader role is to support the Cheese Grading team with the preparation, organisation, recording, and execution of cheese grading activities, while developing the skills, knowledge, and capability required to progress into a Cheese Grader role. Working under the guidance of the Cheese Grading team, the Junior Cheese Grader will contribute to a robust and independent grading and allocation process, supporting cheese quality, stock utilisation, and consistency across the business. This role would suit an early career professional who has a passion for cheese, sensory experience, and how grading can influence and impact business outcomes. If you are someone who is willing to learn and wants to develop a career in a specialised and stable industry, then this opportunity is for you!
YOU’LL MAKE CONTRIBUTIONS THAT MATTER BY...
- Supporting with the organisation of cheese grading samples, for routine grading and ad-hoc requests
- Assisting with routine cheese grading activities alongside experienced graders, developing sensory assessment skills and an understanding of grading criteria
- Assisting with the day-to-day organisation and upkeep of the Cheese Grading Room, equipment, and consumables
- Working with Stock and Warehouse teams regarding stock/sample movements linked to grading
- Adhering to defined grading standards and procedures
- Escalating any cheese quality concerns, deviations from specification, or inconsistencies promptly to senior team members
- Supporting investigations into cheese quality issues as required, under supervision
- Actively developing cheese knowledge, grading capability, an understanding of age profiles, specifications, and customer requirements
- Building understanding of how grading decisions impact stock utilisation, quality, and commercial outcomes
- Working collaboratively with grading colleagues, technical teams, and operations to support smooth grading activity
- Communicating clearly and professionally, escalating issues appropriately
YOU’RE BEST SUITED FOR THE ROLE IF YOU HAVE...
- An interest in food quality and sensory assessment
- Strong skills in attention to detail and accuracy
- A willingness to learn and develop
- Good communication and teamwork skills
- IT capability (E.g. data entry, spreadsheets, trackers)
- An understanding of food safety and hygiene standards
YOU’LL BE SET FOR SUCCESS IN THIS ROLE IF YOU SHOW...
- Accountability: Taking responsibility for your own tasks and following through
- A Learning Mindset: Being open to feedback and continuous development
- Attention to Detail: Working accurately and consistently
- Collaboration: Working well with others and supporting team objectives
- Professionalism: Handling quality related information with integrity and care
DESIRABLE ATTRIBUTES
- Experience in food manufacturing and / or quality in a manufacturing environment
- Exposure to sensory evaluation or quality assessment
WE SUPPORT AND CARE FOR OUR EMPLOYEES BY PROVIDING YOU WITH...
- Hybrid and flexible working opportunities
- Annual bonus up to 10% paid quarterly
- Long service recognition every 5 years
- Enhanced employer pension contributions
- Private Health Care
- Health Cash Plan - claim money back up to a set limit of c.£700 per annum on essential healthcare
- Life Assurance
- Free, on-site parking
- Discounted SDUK branded products
- Subsidised staff restaurant
- 25 Holidays + 8 bank holidays
- My Staff shop - access to exclusive benefits, free advice and savings - providing great discounts from thousands of the UKs largest retailers & service providers
For additional information on our benefits please go to: Employee Benefits | Saputo Dairy UK
DIVERSITY, EQUITY, AND INCLUSION AT SAPUTO
We support employment equity. Saputo strives to embed diversity and inclusion in its operations and invites candidates from all horizons to join our team. We are an accredited Disability Confident Employer where we strive to ensure our site is inclusive and accessible for all. To enable you to bring your best we will ensure you are provided with any physical or non-physical adjustments to support your participation in the job application and interview process.
Junior Cheese Grader in Nuneaton employer: Saputo Inc.
At Saputo, we pride ourselves on being an excellent employer, offering a collaborative and inclusive work culture that values every team member's contributions. Located in Nuneaton, our site is not only a centre of excellence for cheese production but also provides ample opportunities for personal and professional growth, including training in sensory assessment and quality standards. With competitive benefits such as flexible working, private healthcare, and a commitment to employee well-being, we ensure that our staff feel valued and supported in their careers.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Junior Cheese Grader in Nuneaton
✨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 Saputo Inc..
✨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 Saputo Inc.!
✨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 Saputo Inc., they’ll see you’re proactive and truly passionate about food technology.
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We think you need these skills to ace Junior Cheese Grader in Nuneaton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Relevant Projects:When applying for a role in food science and technology at Saputo Inc., 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 Saputo Inc..
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 Saputo Inc.. 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 Saputo Inc.. It shows you're committed to your professional development.
How to prepare for a job interview at Saputo Inc.
✨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 Saputo Inc.’s mission.
