At a Glance
- Tasks: Deliver packaging expertise, ensuring compliance and optimising efficiency across projects.
- Company: Join one of Europe’s largest specialist food companies with a diverse and inclusive culture.
- Benefits: Enjoy an annual incentive plan, wellbeing benefits, discounts, and volunteering opportunities.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with opportunities for personal and professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in packaging innovation while working with passionate food lovers.
- Qualifications: Experience in packaging technology and EU food legislation, with strong project management skills.
The predicted salary is between 35000 - 42000 £ per year.
We are proud of our heritage and position as one of Europe’s largest specialist food companies, manufacturing and supplying authentic global foods which serve the chefs and owners of restaurants and takeaways, as well as a diverse range of consumers. With a strong portfolio of leading brands including Lucky Boat, Elephant Atta, Rajah, Green Dragon and Patak’s, our product range is as diverse as the people who chose to work here, and includes noodles, flour, rice, spices, sauces, and oils. We pride ourselves on our passion for food and people, where collaboration, diversity, and inclusion are integral in everything that we do.
The Opportunity: You will deliver packaging expertise across the business, ensuring legal compliance while optimising efficiency, cost and brand impact. Leading and supporting projects across NPD, capex and cost reduction, you will provide best-fit solutions that meet sustainability, innovation and quality goals. You will create briefs, coordinate plant and transit trials, manage material issues and oversee packaging budgets, ensuring all packaging is fit for purpose and performs effectively. You will maintain compliance with internal processes and legislation, approve supplier specifications, support supplier approvals and proactively track market and technology developments to identify new opportunities.
Who are we looking for? You will bring strong experience in packaging technology, particularly flexible films and corrugate, alongside a solid understanding of EU food packaging legislation. You are an organised and proactive project manager, able to manage multiple priorities with accuracy and attention to detail. A confident communicator, you build effective relationships across teams and suppliers, providing guidance and practical problem‑solving support. You are comfortable analysing data, contributing to technical documentation and using digital or AI tools to enhance performance. A collaborative mindset, ownership of deliverables and a full UK driving licence will set you apart.
What we offer: An annual Incentive Plan. Additionally, you will have access to a range of benefits aimed at enhancing your wellbeing both at home and at work; from a free and confidential 24/7 Employee Assistance Programme to access to affordable loans and financial education, electric vehicle and cycle to work salary sacrifice schemes, an option to buy additional holidays and a day dedicated to volunteering in your local community. You will also have access to our benefits platform Extra Spice from day one, offering a huge variety of retail and leisure discounts.
We welcome applications from all backgrounds and communities, and we are more than happy to discuss any reasonable adjustments that you may require at any stage in the recruitment process.
Senior Packaging Technologist in Trafford employer: Westmill Foods
At Westmill, we pride ourselves on being one of Europe’s largest specialist food companies, where our passion for food and commitment to diversity create a vibrant work culture. As a Lead Development Technologist in Trafford, you will enjoy a supportive environment that fosters innovation and collaboration, alongside a comprehensive benefits package that includes an annual incentive plan, wellness resources, and opportunities for personal growth. Join us to make a meaningful impact in the food industry while being part of a team that values authenticity and inclusivity.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Packaging Technologist in Trafford
✨Get Involved in Local Events
Check out food technology fairs and local agricultural shows. These gatherings are goldmines for meeting employers like Westmill Foods face-to-face. Bring your enthusiasm, and don’t be shy to ask questions about their work!
✨Join Industry-Specific Groups
Dive into social media groups and forums focused on food science and technology. Networking with professionals already in the game can help us get the inside scoop on temporary roles, including those at Westmill Foods.
✨Consider Seasonal Opportunities
Since this is a temporary role, keep an eye on seasonal hiring times when food companies ramp up for production cycles. Check out companies like Westmill Foods during these periods, as they often look for extra support.
✨Got Skills? Show Them Off!
If you’ve got a knack for lab work or product testing, create a mini portfolio of your projects and experiences. It's a great way to stand out when chatting with hiring managers at Westmill Foods. Plus, it’s perfect for showcasing your practical skills!
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Packaging Technologist in Trafford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Technical Know-How:In the food science and technology field, it’s all about the nitty-gritty details. Make sure your CV highlights any relevant coursework, labs, or projects that showcase your technical skills in food processing, safety, or product development. Don't forget to mention any specific techniques or technologies you're comfortable with – they can really set you apart!
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Project:Since this is a temporary role, make your cover letter shine by focusing on your motivation and how you can contribute to Westmill Foods immediately. Highlight your adaptability and any relevant experiences that make you a perfect fit for this specific project – employers love to see that enthusiasm and readiness to dive straight in!
Include Relevant Certifications:If you've got any food safety or quality control certifications, make sure they’re front and centre in your application. These badges of honour can give us – and Westmill Foods – confidence in your skills and commitment to maintaining high standards in the lab or in production.
Emphasise Teamwork and Communication Skills:Food science is often a team sport, so weave in examples of how you've effectively collaborated with others during your studies or previous jobs. Whether it was group projects or internships, showcasing your ability to work well with others and communicate effectively can really strengthen your application.
How to prepare for a job interview at Westmill Foods
✨Brush Up on Food Safety Standards
In the food science and technology field, it's crucial to understand food safety regulations and standards, such as HACCP. Make sure you're ready to discuss how you've implemented these in previous projects, even if they were part of your studies. They might ask you specific questions about handling food safely, so don’t skip this prep!
✨Prepare for Practical Scenarios
Expect some hands-on assessments or scenario-based questions during your interview with Westmill Foods. They might put you in a situation where you have to propose a food product or troubleshoot a food safety issue on the spot, so practice thinking on your feet and explaining your process clearly.
✨Showcase Your Knowledge of Current Trends
Temporary roles often require you to be up-to-date with the latest trends in food technology, like sustainability or novel processing methods. Be ready to share insights on how you can contribute to Westmill Foods's projects or products based on your knowledge of emerging trends in the sector.
✨Highlight the Learning Experience
Since this is a temporary position, emphasise your eagerness to learn and adapt quickly. Share examples of how you've swiftly picked up new skills or technologies in past experiences, whether in your studies or internships. Companies want to see that you can hit the ground running and make an impact, even in a short time!
