At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our team to develop innovative chilled food products from concept to launch.
- Company: Dynamic food company focused on creativity and collaboration.
- Benefits: Hands-on experience, competitive salary, and opportunities for growth.
- Other info: Flexible working options and a commitment to diversity and inclusion.
- Why this job: Be part of exciting product launches and make a real impact in the food industry.
- Qualifications: Degree in Food Science or related field and 1 year of product development experience.
The predicted salary is between 31500 - 38500 £ per year.
- Product Developer
- RDQ Department
- Reporting to: NPD Manager
About the Role
We are looking for a creative, organised and enthusiastic Product Developer to join our Research, Development & Quality (RDQ) team.
This is an exciting opportunity for a food-focused individual to support the development and launch of innovative, commercially successful chilled food products.
Working closely with internal teams, suppliers and customers, you will play a key role in taking products from concept through to factory launch while ensuring they meet the highest standards of quality, safety and profitability.
If you're a passionate foodie with product development experience and enjoy working in a fast-paced environment, we'd love to hear from you.
Key Responsibilities for product developer
- Sample Management
- Organise and distribute product samples for internal and customer reviews.
- Prepare repeat kitchen samples and benchmark products.
- Source and order ingredients and materials.
- Label, pack and arrange delivery of samples.
- Manage ingredient and sample stock, ensuring effective stock rotation and kitchen organisation.
- Product & Concept Development
- Support the New Product Development (NPD) process from concept through to approval.
- Develop products in line with customer and brand specifications.
- Complete product costings where required.
- Prepare customer submission information and supporting documentation.
- Organise and present tasting panels to internal stakeholders and customers.
- Attend supplier meetings and identify opportunities for innovation.
- Process Development & Launch
- Support factory trials from planning through to completion.
- Collect, analyse and report trial data accurately.
- Assist in the completion of product files and launch documentation.
- Support successful product launches through adherence to NPD processes and procedures.
- Customer Relationship Management
- Maintain effective communication with both internal and external customers.
- Develop an understanding of customer requirements, standards and processes.
- Ensure relevant teams are briefed on customer expectations and project requirements.
- Team Contribution
- Monitor and track departmental spend against budget.
- Support colleagues across the RDQ function and wider business.
- Champion company values and promote cross-functional collaboration.
- Help maintain clean, safe and hygienic working environments.
About You
Essential Qualifications & Experience for product developer
- Degree in Food Science, Food Technology or a related discipline.
- Basic culinary skills and passion for food.
- Minimum 1 year's product development experience within the food industry.
- Experience working with chilled food products.
- Proven ability to deliver projects to agreed timelines.
- Basic commercial and financial awareness.
- Strong organisational and communication skills.
- Experience working effectively with cross-functional teams.
- Personal Attributes for product developer
We're looking for someone who is
- Creative, innovative and able to think outside the box.
- Passionate about food and food trends.
- Positive, enthusiastic and self-motivated.
- Flexible and adaptable in a changing environment.
- Able to build collaborative working relationships.
- Focused on delivering consistent, high-quality results.
- Additional Requirements for product developer
- Full UK driving licence.
- Willingness to travel regularly between sites, suppliers and customers.
- Flexibility to stay overnight and work additional hours when business needs require.
- What You'll Be Working In
- Office environment.
- Development kitchen.
- Chilled manufacturing facilities.
- Customer, supplier and site locations across the business.
Why Join Us?
This role offers the opportunity to be involved in every stage of the product development journey, working with experienced teams and major customers to create innovative products that reach the market.
You'll gain hands‑on exposure to concept creation, factory trials, customer presentations and product launches while contributing to a culture of continuous improvement and innovation.
Ref S05
About Us
We are dedicated to fostering a diverse and inclusive community.
In line with our Diversity and Inclusion policy, we welcome applications from all qualified individuals, regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or disability.
As a Disability Confident Employer, and part of the Nicholas Associates Group, we are committed to supporting candidates with disabilities, and we're happy to discuss flexible working options.
We are committed to protecting the privacy of all our candidates and clients.
If you choose to apply, your information will be processed in accordance with the Nicholas Associates Group of companies
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Product Developer employer: Stafforce Recruitment
Join a dynamic and inclusive team where creativity thrives and your ideas can truly make an impact. As a Marketing Assistant in our specialist Industrial environment, you'll enjoy the freedom to take ownership of exciting projects while benefiting from a supportive work culture that prioritises employee growth and development. With opportunities for both office-based and on-location work, plus a commitment to diversity and flexible working options, this is an excellent place to advance your career in digital marketing.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Product Developer
✨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 Stafforce Recruitment.
✨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 Stafforce Recruitment!
✨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 Stafforce Recruitment, 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 Stafforce Recruitment, and they might have insider tips or referrals just for you!
We think you need these skills to ace Product Developer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Relevant Projects:When applying for a role in food science and technology at Stafforce Recruitment, 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 Stafforce Recruitment.
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 Stafforce Recruitment. 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 Stafforce Recruitment. It shows you're committed to your professional development.
How to prepare for a job interview at Stafforce Recruitment
✨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 Stafforce Recruitment’s mission.
