At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a hands-on role in the development kitchen, creating exciting food products.
- Company: Be part of a tight-knit R&D team within a global food group.
- Benefits: Gain real exposure to major brands and receive ongoing mentoring.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with opportunities for personal and professional growth.
- Why this job: Turn your passion for food into innovative products that reach customers nationwide.
- Qualifications: Degree or experience in Food Science, Culinary Arts, or similar fields.
The predicted salary is between 27000 - 33000 £ per year.
Ever wondered what goes into the food products you see on menus and shelves everywhere?
This is a hands-on role in the development kitchen, helping create products that end up in front of customers across the country, as part of a tight-knit R&D team known for backing new talent and teaching them the trade properly, from the first kitchen sample right through to commercial launch.
As Development Technologist you'll support NPD and EPD projects from concept through to launch, build and present product samples, get stuck into recipe development and ingredient testing, run supplier evaluations and factory trials and take part in taste panels and benchmarking.
You'll also join customer presentations and innovation sessions, working closely with Commercial, Technical, Process, Procurement and Operations to bring products to life.
We're looking for someone with a degree, HND or equivalent in Food Science, Food Technology, Culinary Arts or similar or the industry experience to match, along with a genuine passion for food and product development, strong organisation and communication skills and a collaborative approach across departments.
Experience in FMCG food manufacturing, a commercial kitchen or foodservice background or a full UK driving licence would all be an advantage.
This role offers the pace and agility of a smaller team backed by a genuinely global food group, with real exposure to major foodservice and consumer brands, an end-to-end view of product development, and ongoing mentoring within a supportive, hands-on R&D team.
Please note, our client is unable to accept visa applications for this role.
Please call Nicola on 01780 483 999 for a confidential chat or send your updated CV to
Development Technologist in Leeds employer: Zest Food Jobs
Join an ambitious, founder-led food and beverage manufacturer in North London as an Operations Manager, where your contributions will directly shape the future of the business. With a collaborative and entrepreneurial culture, you'll enjoy significant career progression, private healthcare, and a long-term equity opportunity, all while working closely with experienced founders in a fast-paced environment that values innovation and initiative. This is a unique chance to make a meaningful impact in a growing company that prioritises quality and customer partnerships.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Development Technologist in Leeds
✨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 Zest Food Jobs.
✨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 Zest Food Jobs!
✨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 Zest Food Jobs, 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 Zest Food Jobs, and they might have insider tips or referrals just for you!
We think you need these skills to ace Development Technologist in Leeds
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Relevant Projects:When applying for a role in food science and technology at Zest Food Jobs, 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 Zest Food Jobs.
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 Zest Food Jobs. 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 Zest Food Jobs. It shows you're committed to your professional development.
How to prepare for a job interview at Zest Food Jobs
✨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 Zest Food Jobs’s mission.
