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- Tasks: Join our sweets innovation team and support product development from concept to shelf.
- Company: Valeo Foods UK, home to iconic brands like Kettle Crisps and Rowse Honey.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, matched pension, staff discounts, and excellent career opportunities.
- Why this job: Be part of a creative journey in the food industry and make a real impact.
- Qualifications: Experience in food manufacturing and strong communication skills are essential.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for growth and collaboration across various teams.
The predicted salary is between 25000 - 28000 ÂŁ per year.
At Valeo Foods UK, we are the creative force behind an array of beloved brands spanning indulgence, innovation, and tradition. From the iconic crunch of Kettle Crisps to the pure sweetness of Rowse Honey, and the rich heritage of Matthew Walker puddings, our portfolio reflects our commitment to quality and diversity.
Our family of brands extends further, encompassing an exciting array of products and experiences. Whether it’s the Wild West flavours of New World Foods, the nostalgic joy of Barratt sweets, or the timeless appeal of Metcalfe Popcorn, each brand carries its own unique story, flavour, and charm. Join us on a journey where passion meets flavour, crafting experiences that bring people together and delight taste buds.
Job Description
R&D (Research and Development) Technician
York Based With Occasional Travel To Other Valeo Sites
Working Monday to Friday 9-5
Salary ÂŁ25000 To ÂŁ28000 Depending On Skills And Experience
Are you curious, hands‑on, and passionate about food? We’re looking for someone to step into a key role as R&D Technician in our sweets innovation team, based at our York site. This role is all about variety, collaboration, and supporting great ideas from concept to shelf. You’ll work closely with our Senior R&D Technologist, playing an important part in everything from organising factory trials and managing ingredients, to running our sensory lab and helping us test and validate new product launches.
It’s a role that touches many parts of the business—including Process, Operations, Technical, Procurement, and Marketing—and gives you a unique view of how our products come to life. You’ll be preparing and running factory trials, managing key documentation, leading sensory panels, and helping to ensure our R&D team is equipped with the right tools, materials, and insights. This isn’t just about support—it’s about ownership, too. You’ll take the lead on organising lab activities, overseeing shelf‑life and sensory testing, and even deputising for the Senior Technologist when needed.
We’re looking for someone who’s organised, proactive, and confident in a fast‑moving environment. A background in food or confectionery manufacturing is a big plus, and you’ll need to be comfortable juggling multiple priorities—whether that’s helping prep for a product launch, managing store checks, or leading a customer visit.
Qualifications
- Experience in food manufacturing, ideally within new product development or R&D environment.
- Familiarity with food process technologies and their application.
- Strong communication skills—written, verbal, and presentation.
- Ability to interact successfully across all levels of the business.
- Proficiency in key IT applications including Excel, Word, and PowerPoint.
- Full, clean driving licence.
- Passion for food and a genuine interest in food‑related innovation.
- Strong attention to detail with excellent organisational skills.
- Flexible, forward‑thinking, and able to adapt in a fast‑paced, dynamic environment.
- Positive, willing attitude with a desire to learn and develop, demonstrating a “Personal Best” mindset.
- Good team player with adaptability to operate at all levels of the organisation.
- Numerate and commercially aware.
- Ability to embrace change and contribute to continuous improvement.
What We Offer You In Return
- Salary of ÂŁ25000-28000 depending on skills and experience.
- Monday to Friday 9-5.
- Excellent Career Opportunities.
- Matched pension scheme up to 10%.
- Death in service.
- Cycle to work scheme.
- Retailer discount platform.
- Staff discount.
- And plenty more!
If you’re ready to make your mark in the snack world, apply now! We’re excited to meet you and welcome you to the Valeo Foods UK family. Come taste success with us at Valeo Foods UK!
R&D Technician employer: Valeo Foods UK
Contact Detail:
Valeo Foods UK Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land R&D Technician
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company! Research Valeo Foods UK and their brands. Understanding their products and values will help you tailor your conversations during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with current employees on LinkedIn or attend industry events. This can give you insider knowledge about the company culture and possibly even a referral, which can really boost your chances of landing that R&D Technician role.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the interview by practising common questions related to R&D and food innovation. Think about your past experiences and how they relate to the role. We want to see your passion for food and innovation shine through!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after your interview! A quick thank-you email can leave a lasting impression and shows your enthusiasm for the position. Plus, it keeps you on their radar as they make their decision.
We think you need these skills to ace R&D Technician
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Food: When you're writing your application, let your love for food shine through! Share any experiences or projects that highlight your enthusiasm for food innovation and how it aligns with our mission at Valeo Foods.
Tailor Your CV and Cover Letter: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the R&D Technician role. Highlight relevant experience in food manufacturing or R&D, and don’t forget to mention your organisational skills and ability to juggle multiple tasks!
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application clear and to the point. Use straightforward language and structure your information logically. This will help us quickly see how you fit into our team and the role.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us without any hiccups. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining the Valeo Foods family!
How to prepare for a job interview at Valeo Foods UK
✨Know Your Brands
Before the interview, take some time to research Valeo Foods UK and its diverse range of brands. Familiarise yourself with their products, especially those related to sweets and snacks. This will not only show your genuine interest in the company but also help you connect your experience to their specific needs.
✨Showcase Your Passion for Food
As an R&D Technician, your passion for food innovation is key. Be prepared to discuss your favourite food trends or innovations and how they inspire you. Share any relevant experiences that highlight your enthusiasm for food development and how it aligns with Valeo's mission.
✨Demonstrate Your Organisational Skills
Given the role's emphasis on managing multiple priorities, come equipped with examples of how you've successfully organised projects or tasks in the past. Highlight your attention to detail and ability to juggle responsibilities, as this will resonate well with the fast-paced environment at Valeo.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Brush up on your knowledge of food process technologies and be ready to discuss how you've applied them in previous roles. Expect questions about sensory testing and product development processes, so think of specific instances where you've contributed to these areas.
