At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage specifications for major retailers and ensure compliance in a fast-paced food manufacturing environment.
- Company: Reputable food manufacturer known for innovative, high-quality products across the UK and Europe.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, healthcare support, enhanced leave, and career development opportunities.
- Other info: Supportive leadership with genuine progression opportunities in a modern manufacturing setting.
- Why this job: Join a dynamic team and make a real impact on product quality and customer relationships.
- Qualifications: 3+ years in specifications within food manufacturing and strong knowledge of UK food legislation.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 33000 £ per year.
The Collective Network are partnering with a well-invested food manufacturer looking to strengthen their technical function with the appointment of an experienced Specifications Technologist. This isn't a role for someone who just 'does specs.' This is for someone who understands the commercial impact of getting them right. The business behind this opportunity has built an impressive reputation within the food manufacturing space, supplying innovative, high-quality products into major retail, foodservice, and manufacturing channels across the UK and Europe. Significant investment across operations, systems, and product innovation means they're continuing to grow, and the technical team is evolving with it. Now they need someone who can bring structure, accuracy, and pace into a fast-moving environment where attention to detail genuinely matters.
The Role
You'll sit within a busy technical team, owning the creation and maintenance of retailer and customer specifications across multiple platforms and product categories. This is a highly collaborative role where you'll work closely with NPD, Process, Commercial, and Technical teams to keep projects moving, launches on track, and compliance watertight.
What you'll be doing:
- Managing retailer and customer specifications across major UK retail and foodservice accounts
- Approving packaging copy and artwork in line with legal and customer requirements
- Supporting product launches through accurate specification management and critical path coordination
- Verifying ingredient, allergen, recipe, and nutritional data
- Acting as a key technical contact for specification-related queries
- Conducting allergen and claims risk assessments
- Supporting audits and ensuring systems remain compliant and audit-ready
- Working across specification platforms and technical systems including retailer portals and ERP systems
- Collaborating cross-functionally to ensure products move efficiently from concept through to launch
What they're looking for
This role suits someone who already knows the pace and pressure of food manufacturing specifications. You'll probably have:
- 3+ years' experience in a Specifications Technologist role within food manufacturing
- Strong retailer specification platform experience
- A solid understanding of UK food legislation, allergens, and labelling compliance
- The ability to manage multiple deadlines without compromising accuracy
- Strong communication skills and confidence working cross-functionally
- A proactive mindset, someone who spots problems before they become issues
Most importantly, they want someone who takes pride in detail and understands the importance of technical accuracy in protecting both customer relationships and brand reputation.
What's in it for you?
- Competitive salary
- Healthcare, dental, and optical support
- Enhanced annual leave package
- Career development and training opportunities
- Modern manufacturing environment
- A business that continues to invest heavily in people, systems, and growth
- Supportive technical leadership team with genuine progression opportunities
If you'd like to hear more about this opportunity, or want a confidential conversation about technical roles within food manufacturing, get in touch with Gemma at The Collective Network today.
Specifications Technologist in Manchester employer: The Collective Network
Join a leading food manufacturer in Lincolnshire that prioritises innovation and quality, offering a dynamic work environment where your expertise as a Specifications Technologist will be valued. With competitive salaries, comprehensive healthcare benefits, and a strong focus on career development, this company fosters a supportive culture that encourages growth and collaboration across teams. You'll thrive in a modern manufacturing setting that is committed to investing in its people and systems, ensuring you have the tools needed for success.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Specifications Technologist in Manchester
✨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 The Collective Network.
✨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 The Collective Network!
✨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 The Collective Network, 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 The Collective Network, and they might have insider tips or referrals just for you!
We think you need these skills to ace Specifications Technologist in Manchester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Relevant Projects:When applying for a role in food science and technology at The Collective Network, 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 The Collective Network.
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 The Collective Network. 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 The Collective Network. It shows you're committed to your professional development.
How to prepare for a job interview at The Collective Network
✨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 The Collective Network’s mission.
