Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Join us as a Food Technologist, innovating and ensuring food safety in our Impulse Snacking category.
- Company: Solent Group is a global leader in bespoke product innovation across various retail categories.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible hours, competitive salary, extensive benefits, and opportunities for personal growth.
- Why this job: Be part of a dynamic team creating amazing products that impact global customers and trends.
- Qualifications: Minimum 2 years in a technical role; degree in Food Science or related field required.
- Other info: Regular travel and hands-on experience with food products, including allergens.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Join us to apply for the Food Technologist role at Solent Group.
Company Description
Solent Group works with a diverse portfolio of retailers, supplying bespoke products across categories such as Health & Beauty, Household Impulse Snacking, and Reusable Bags. We excel in own-label product innovation, operating in a fast-paced environment with evolving trends and groundbreaking product launches. Our goal is to add value to retailers by leading and owning each category.
At Solent, we strive for excellence. We create and produce exceptional products and brands for our global customers. Our offices are located across South Africa, Hong Kong, Shanghai, Vietnam, and the UK.
Position
Division/Dept: Technical – Impulse Snacking
Report To: Senior Technical Manager
Location: Hybrid Christchurch, Dorset (minimum 1 day/week in the office)
Travel: Regular European and UK overnight travel, often at short notice
We are seeking a Food Technologist to support the development, safety, quality, and legality of food products in the Impulse Snacking category. Responsibilities include innovation, product formulation, supplier compliance, and continuous improvement of existing lines to meet high standards and customer expectations.
Responsibilities
- Assist in NPD process from concept to launch, ensuring safety, compliance, and manufacturability.
- Maintain product specifications and respond to third-party specification checks.
- Approve product artwork and labels in line with EU/UK regulations.
- Handle technical queries from internal teams, customers, and suppliers.
- Coordinate sampling, shelf-life testing, and sensory evaluations.
- Conduct supplier audits and risk assessments.
- Maintain documentation for development projects and regulatory approvals.
- Provide technical input during trials, launches, and reviews.
- Stay updated on food legislation, industry trends, and retail standards.
- Troubleshoot issues and drive continuous improvement.
- Collaborate on Quality Contracts and QAS documentation.
- Support supplier audits and maintain retailer portal documentation.
- Manage testing data, reports, and documentation for compliance and audits.
About You
- Minimum 2 years’ experience in technical, quality, or NPD roles within the food industry.
- Strong knowledge of food legislation, HACCP, labeling, and allergens.
- Experience with co-manufacturers or external suppliers preferred.
- Familiarity with UK retailer specifications desirable.
- Degree in Food Science, Food Technology, or related field.
- Understanding of food safety, quality systems, and legislation.
- Excellent project management and communication skills.
- Ability to influence and work cross-functionally in a fast-paced environment.
- Analytical and problem-solving skills.
- High attention to detail and data accuracy.
- Note: This role involves regular tasting/handling of food products, including allergens. Please consider this if you have severe allergies.
What We Offer
- Competitive salary with annual reviews
- 25 days holiday, increasing to 27 after 3 years, and 30 after 5 years
- Benefits including additional holiday purchase, medical cash plan, mental health support, and more
- Flexible hours and remote work options
- Learning and development opportunities
- Yearly bonus based on company targets
- Enhanced maternity and paternity leave
- Company sick pay, pension scheme contributions, social events, Cycle to Work scheme, dress-down Fridays, and free parking in Christchurch Quay
Seniority Level
- Entry level
Employment Type
- Full-time
Job Function
- Research, Analysis, and Information Technology
Industry
- Manufacturing
#J-18808-Ljbffr
Food Technologist employer: Solent Group
Contact Detail:
Solent Group Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Food Technologist
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the latest food legislation and industry trends. Being knowledgeable about current regulations and innovations in the food sector will not only help you in interviews but also demonstrate your commitment to the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the food technology field. Attend industry events or join relevant online forums to connect with others who work in similar roles. This can provide valuable insights and potentially lead to referrals.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for technical questions related to food safety, quality systems, and allergen management. Brush up on your knowledge of HACCP and UK retailer specifications, as these are crucial for the Food Technologist position.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your project management skills during the interview. Be ready to discuss specific examples of how you've successfully managed product development projects or collaborated with cross-functional teams in a fast-paced environment.
We think you need these skills to ace Food Technologist
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in food technology, quality assurance, and product development. Emphasise any specific projects or roles that align with the responsibilities listed in the job description.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for food innovation and your understanding of food safety regulations. Mention how your skills and experiences make you a perfect fit for the Food Technologist role at Solent Group.
Highlight Relevant Skills: In your application, focus on key skills such as project management, analytical thinking, and knowledge of food legislation. Use specific examples to demonstrate how you've successfully applied these skills in previous roles.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your CV and cover letter for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects attention to detail, which is crucial in the food industry.
How to prepare for a job interview at Solent Group
✨Know Your Food Legislation
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of food legislation, HACCP, and allergen management. Being able to discuss these topics confidently will show that you're well-prepared and understand the industry's standards.
✨Showcase Your NPD Experience
Be ready to talk about your experience in the New Product Development (NPD) process. Highlight specific projects you've worked on, focusing on how you ensured safety, compliance, and manufacturability from concept to launch.
✨Prepare for Technical Queries
Anticipate questions related to handling technical queries from internal teams and suppliers. Think of examples where you've successfully resolved issues or provided support, as this will demonstrate your problem-solving skills.
✨Stay Updated on Industry Trends
Research current trends in the food industry, especially within the Impulse Snacking category. Being able to discuss recent innovations or changes will show your passion for the field and your commitment to continuous improvement.
