At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our Ripening Centre to manage quality and improve fruit ripening processes.
- Company: Dynamic fruit supplier with a global reach and a focus on quality.
- Benefits: Enjoy 6.6 weeks annual leave, pension scheme, and learning opportunities.
- Other info: Work hours are 5.30am to 2pm, with every other weekend off.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on fruit quality while working in a collaborative environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in fresh produce or food production; strong knowledge of ripening processes.
The predicted salary is between 34200 - 41800 £ per year.
We are looking for the perfect candidate to join our Ripening Centre of Excellence in Paddock Wood, where we currently ripen Avocados, Kiwi and stone fruit.
With grower partners around the world, we supply quality fruit throughout the year to customers in retail, wholesale and foodservice in the UK and further afield.
As a Ripener, reporting to the Head of Product & Ripening, you will support the Senior Ripeners to meet customer specifications and maintain product quality.
You will use technical knowledge and accurate data to improve yield, shelf life and operational efficiency, working closely with colleagues across the business.
Key responsibilities
Ripening & quality management
- Plan and load rooms to customer requirements, holding at least 1.5 days of stock with a 2-day target.
- Assess pallet ripeness, carry out dry matter testing and report anomalies or quality concerns promptly.
- Run accelerated ripening trials and apply knowledge of origins and varieties to improve outcomes.
Stock control & operational collaboration
- Manage stock through the ripening cycle, using rotation and proactive planning to minimise waste.
- Complete stock assessments, record waste levels and share findings with the relevant teams.
- Update Production, Technical and Commercial on performance and quality risks before production.
- Give Procurement and Technical clear evidence of quality concerns and supplier performance issues.
Equipment, process & compliance
- Check and calibrate equipment, monitor room controls and use trial data to improve ripening protocols.
- Support the Senior Ripeners with improvements to increase yield, reduce losses and improved efficiency.
- Keep accurate BRC records, maintain a safe 5S workplace and follow company hygiene and safety policies.
Our perfect candidate
You will bring fresh produce, ripening or food production experience and strong knowledge of ripening across different fruit categories, origins and varieties.
You can assess quality accurately, plan stock to maximise shelf life and minimise waste, and use data confidently.
You will communicate clearly and make sound decisions.
Proactive and collaborative, you will uphold food safety, hygiene and workplace standards and treat others with respect.
Dry matter testing, ripening trials, equipment calibration or food or horticultural qualifications would be an advantage.
The hours you would work
40 hours per week 5.30am until 2pm with ½ hour break and every other weekend.
What else we can offer you
- 6.6 weeks annual leave incl. bank hols.
- Pension scheme.
- Optional company share scheme.
- Learning and development opportunities.
- Free onsite parking.
- Employee Assistance Program.
- Cycle to work Scheme.
- Medicash.
- Death in service benefit.
- #J-18808-Ljbffr
Ripener in Tonbridge employer: The Fresh Produce Centre, Ltd.
The Fresh Produce Centre Ltd is an exceptional employer located in Paddock Wood, Kent, offering a vibrant work culture that prioritises quality and teamwork. With generous benefits such as 6.6 weeks of holiday, free onsite parking, and opportunities for personal development, employees are encouraged to grow within the company while contributing to the supply of premium fresh produce. Join us to be part of a dedicated team where your attention to detail and commitment to quality will make a real difference in delivering excellence to our customers.
Contact Details:
The Fresh Produce Centre, Ltd. Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Ripener in Tonbridge
✨Connect with Local Farmers and Co-ops
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We think you need these skills to ace Ripener in Tonbridge
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Relevant Experience:When applying for a role in agriculture, it's crucial to highlight any hands-on experience you have in farming, crop management, or sustainable practices. We want to see how your background aligns with the role you're after, so be specific about the responsibilities you've had and any tools or techniques you've used.
Certifications Matter:In agriculture, relevant certifications can really give your application a boost. If you have any qualifications related to agricultural practices, pest management, or environmental regulations, make sure to mention them! They're great indicators of your commitment and expertise in the field.
Tailor Your CV to the Agriculture Sector:Your CV should reflect your passion for agriculture. Structure it to emphasise your field experience and any relevant projects you've been involved in. Don't forget to highlight your soft skills, like teamwork and communication, which are essential in this sector.
Passion is Key in Your Cover Letter:Since this is a full-time position, we want to feel your enthusiasm for agriculture in your cover letter. Share why you're drawn to this industry and mention any long-term goals you have that align with what The Fresh Produce Centre, Ltd. does. This can really set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at The Fresh Produce Centre, Ltd.
✨Get Familiar with Agricultural Technologies
Make sure you're up to speed with the latest agricultural technologies and tools that are commonly used in the field. Whether it’s precision farming tools or crop management software, being able to discuss these effectively during your interview with The Fresh Produce Centre, Ltd. will show that you're technically savvy and ready to contribute from day one.
✨Showcase Your Practical Experience
Since agriculture is a hands-on industry, be prepared to share any practical experiences you've had. This could be through internships, volunteer work, or even personal projects. Discussing specific challenges you faced and how you overcame them can really impress the interviewers, especially in a full-time role at The Fresh Produce Centre, Ltd..
✨Understand the Sustainable Practices
Sustainability is a hot topic in agriculture right now, so it's important to understand current practices and regulations in the industry. Familiarise yourself with concepts like crop rotation, organic farming, and environmental impact. Having informed opinions on these topics can set you apart from other candidates during your interview.
✨Practice Common Industry Scenarios
Expect to tackle a few scenario-based questions that mimic real-life challenges in agriculture. For instance, you might be asked how you would handle a pest infestation or manage resources during a drought. Practising these scenarios will help you respond confidently and showcase your problem-solving skills during the interview with The Fresh Produce Centre, Ltd..
