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- Tasks: Join a dynamic NPD team and support innovative food product launches.
- Company: Respected food manufacturer in Leicestershire, known for nurturing graduate talent.
- Benefits: Hands-on experience, mentoring, and exposure to various business areas.
- Why this job: Kickstart your career in the food industry with real impact and growth opportunities.
- Qualifications: UK degree in Food Science, Food Technology or related field required.
- Other info: Fast-paced environment with a supportive culture and career development focus.
The predicted salary is between 28800 - 48000 £ per year.
We are delighted to be partnering with a well‑established and much‑loved brand to recruit a Graduate Development Technologist. This is an excellent opportunity for someone early in their food industry career to step into a hands‑on development role within a business known for producing high‑quality, wholesome products enjoyed globally.
With over 48 years of heritage, our client combines the backing of a global food group with the agility and innovative mindset of a forward‑thinking brand. They are passionate about pushing boundaries, developing healthier products and acting responsibly for both people and the planet.
You will play a key role in bringing new products to life, from concept through to launch. You\’ll lead development projects across branded and private label ranges, create and refine recipes in the R&D kitchen and support factory trials to ensure successful scale‑up to production. You\’ll also use consumer and sensory insights to drive product improvements.
We are seeking candidates with a degree in Food Science, Nutrition or a related discipline, along with at least one year\’s FMCG experience in R&D, Technical or Quality (placements considered). Strong organisational skills, a proactive mindset and the ability to collaborate effectively across teams are essential.
The role offers £28,000-£30,000, a 5% bonus, 25 days\’ holiday plus bank holidays and a great pension. Additional benefits include a Health Cash Plan, staff shop and discounts, free onsite parking and flexible working hours. This is a full‑time, 37.5‑hour position with a hybrid pattern of three days onsite and two from home. You will need a car and driving licence.
The interview process consists of a first‑stage Teams interview followed by a second‑stage onsite meeting.
If you\’re looking to contribute to products enjoyed by millions, we would love to hear from you. Please call Nicola on (phone number removed) or email your CV to (url removed).
As you know over here at Zest we like to do things properly and always want to keep you, the candidate in the loop. Applying to this ‘one of a kind’ role you give Zest permission to hold your information. If you want to know more about how Zest look after your personal information please visit our privacy policy on the website (url removed).
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Graduate Development Technologist - Exclusive employer: Zest
Contact Detail:
Zest Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Graduate Development Technologist - Exclusive
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to alumni from your university or connect with professionals in the food industry on LinkedIn. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insights that might just land you that graduate role.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its products. Show your passion for food and innovation during the conversation. We want to see your enthusiasm shine through!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of follow-ups! After an interview, drop a quick thank-you email to express your appreciation. It keeps you fresh in their minds and shows your professionalism.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply directly through our website for the best chance at landing that role. We’re all about making the process smooth and straightforward for you, so don’t miss out on this opportunity!
We think you need these skills to ace Graduate Development Technologist - Exclusive
Some tips for your application 🫡
Read the Job Description Carefully: Before you start your application, make sure to read through the job description thoroughly. It’s packed with important details about what we’re looking for in a candidate, so understanding it will help you tailor your application to stand out.
Show Your Passion for Food: We want to see your enthusiasm for the food industry shine through in your application. Share any relevant experiences or projects that highlight your passion and curiosity about food technology and product development.
Tailor Your CV and Cover Letter: Don’t just send a generic CV! Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to reflect the skills and experiences that align with the role. Highlight your food-related degree and any relevant coursework or projects that demonstrate your fit for the position.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets into the right hands and shows us you’re serious about joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Zest
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your food science and technology knowledge. Familiarise yourself with current trends in the food industry, especially those related to product development. This will not only show your passion but also help you engage in meaningful conversations during the interview.
✨Show Your Enthusiasm
Let your natural curiosity shine through! Talk about why you're excited about the food manufacturing industry and how you see yourself contributing to innovation and new product launches. Employers love candidates who are genuinely passionate about their field.
✨Prepare Questions
Have a few thoughtful questions ready to ask at the end of the interview. This could be about the company culture, the NPD team’s projects, or opportunities for career development. It shows that you’re proactive and interested in the role beyond just getting hired.
✨Practice Makes Perfect
Run through some common interview questions with a friend or in front of a mirror. Focus on articulating your experiences and how they relate to the role. The more comfortable you are speaking about your background and skills, the more confident you'll appear during the actual interview.