At a Glance
- Tasks: Ensure product specifications are accurate and compliant while driving product launches.
- Company: Join a passionate FMCG business that values detail and accuracy.
- Benefits: Hybrid working, competitive salary, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Dynamic role with continuous improvement opportunities and collaboration across teams.
- Why this job: Be the vital link in a values-driven company and make a real impact.
- Qualifications: Degree in Food Science or related field and experience in UK retail specifications.
Love getting the detail exactly right? This is your chance to join a well-established and passionate FMCG business as their next Specifications Technologist, working hybrid, full time, 37.5 hours, Monday to Friday. If you take genuine pride in accuracy and want to play a pivotal role at the heart of a values-driven business, this role is built for you.
Sitting right at the centre of the business, you will be the vital link between Technical, NPD, Packaging and Commercial teams, keeping product launches on track and compliance watertight every step of the way. You will take full ownership of finished product specifications, creating, reviewing and maintaining them across retailer and customer systems, ensuring everything is accurate, legally compliant and delivered within agreed project timelines, all in line with BRCGS and customer requirements.
You will be the go-to expert for technical compliance, validating ingredient declarations, allergens, nutritional data, country of origin, shelf life and storage instructions against UK food legislation and retailer codes of practice, and stepping up to support audits with confidence when needed. You will also own artwork approval from start to finish, verifying artwork against specifications and legal labelling requirements, coordinating stakeholder feedback and giving final sign-off on pack copy and outer case labels.
Working closely with Technical, NPD, Procurement and Packaging teams, you will help drive product launches forward, keep specification and artwork milestones firmly on track and bring real insight to project meetings. You will also play an active role in continuous improvement, staying ahead of legislative and retailer developments, spotting opportunities to sharpen processes and controls and sharing your knowledge across the wider business.
To thrive in this role, you will need a degree or equivalent qualification in Food Science, Food Technology or a related discipline, along with at least two years experience writing UK retail specifications. If you take ownership, thrive on getting things right first time and want to bring your specifications expertise to a business that truly lives its values, we would love to hear from you.
Specifications Technologist - Hybrid in Leeds employer: Zest
Join a well-established food manufacturing business in the Grimsby area, where you will be part of a dynamic engineering team dedicated to maintaining high standards of production and safety. With a competitive salary and opportunities for continuous improvement projects, this role offers a supportive work culture that values employee growth and development. Enjoy the benefits of working in a thriving industry that prioritises innovation and teamwork, making it an excellent place for skilled engineers to advance their careers.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Specifications Technologist - Hybrid 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.
✨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!
✨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, 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, and they might have insider tips or referrals just for you!
We think you need these skills to ace Specifications Technologist - Hybrid in Leeds
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Relevant Projects:When applying for a role in food science and technology at Zest, 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.
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. 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. It shows you're committed to your professional development.
How to prepare for a job interview at Zest
✨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’s mission.
