Food Technologist

Simplot Company; City of Kingston; Hybrid; AUD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Flexible working arrangements

Health and wellbeing programs

Ongoing learning and development

Employee recognition programs

Job summary

Simplot Company in Mentone, VIC is hiring a Food Technologist to join their Product Innovation team on a 12-month fixed-term contract. The role emphasizes delivering technical aspects of New Product Introduction while collaborating with various teams to innovate and meet growth targets.

The ideal candidate will possess a tertiary qualification in Food Science or Technology and proven experience in product commercialization. Simplot promotes a hybrid work model and offers several benefits including flexible working arrangements.

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Food Technologist with successful product commercialization.
• Strong understanding of Stage Gate processes.
• Experience with food quality systems and regulations.

Responsibilities

• Drive technical aspects of New Product Introduction.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams for innovative solutions.
• Manage projects using sound project management principles.

Skills

Project management methodologies

Food regulations compliance

Analytical skills

Communication skills

Education

Tertiary qualification in Food Science or Food Technology

Job description

In Australia, the J.R. Simplot Company’s core operations are food manufacturing and agriculture, encompassing potato, vegetable, seafood and sauce operations. We supply a wide range of frozen, shelf‑stable and chilled products to major retail and foodservice customers in Australia and New Zealand. The Simplot Global Food business includes 17 food manufacturing and processing sites, serving retail and foodservice customers in 37 countries and employing 8,000 people across North America, Latin America and Asia Pacific. Globally, the J.R. Simplot Company employs 15,000 people, driving innovation and excellence across diverse industries.

Within the Australian market, we are a leading provider of quality, nourishing and sustainable food, focused on creating meals that maximise value from the best Australian-grown produce and global seafood. Our iconic brands have been an integral part of Aussie life for generations, and include Leggo’s, Birds Eye, Edgell, John West and Chiko.

Culture and Benefits

At Simplot, we are fuelled by our purpose: We Contribute to Feeding Our World. We imagine a better future and set goals to reach it. We are committed to working as one Simplot and are guided by our shared values:

• Respect for Resources
• Spirit of Innovation
• Passion for People

We embrace diversity, equity, and inclusion. We care about creating an environment that promotes safety and wellbeing and where our people feel supported, respected and empowered. We do not tolerate any form of discrimination and are committed to providing equal opportunities for all our team members.

Simplot is passionate about cultivating a future where good ideas and inspiring possibilities have the chance to grow. We want our team members to build exciting and fulfilling careers with us and offer professional and personal growth opportunities.

The Perks

• Flexible working arrangements and access to health and wellbeing programs
• Ongoing learning and development through leadership and professional development initiatives
• Employee recognition programs that celebrate your contribution
• Access to our Sensory Club – get involved in tasting new product launches and culinary sessions

Simplot values the creativity and meaningful relationships that grow through face-to-face connection while also recognising the importance of flexibility for our team members. Our hybrid work environment includes four days in the office, with Wednesdays as our dedicated ‘Connect Day’ bringing everyone together to strengthen our successful culture of innovation and collaboration.

About Our Role

We’re looking for a Food Technologist to join our Regional Categories Product Innovation team on a 12-month fixed‑term contract, based at our Chifley office in Mentone, VIC.

In this role, you will be responsible for delivering all technical aspects across key NPI projects, working closely with cross‑functional teams to develop and commercialise innovative ideas that support our growth targets.

What You Will Do

• Drive and deliver the technical and product development aspects of New Product Introduction (NPI) projects
• Work collaboratively with innovation partners (e.g. factories, outsource suppliers, QA, Marketing, Procurement) to develop and implement innovative technical solutions
• Identify and contribute to new product and growth opportunities through strong internal and external collaboration
• Understand stakeholder requirements and align priorities to deliver on customer and consumer needs
• Proactively manage and progress projects through the Stage Gate process using sound project management principles
• Monitor project progress, communicating updates and escalating risks, milestones and roadblocks to stakeholders and sponsors
• Communicate the Stage Gate Product Innovation system and project methodology to external customers and suppliers to ensure alignment and successful delivery
• Maintain accurate and timely documentation to support backend project execution and compliance

About You

• Tertiary qualification in Food Science, Food Technology or a related discipline
• Proven experience in a similar Food Technologist role, with a track record of bringing products from concept through to commercialisation
• Strong understanding of project management methodologies and structured Stage Gate processes
• Experience working with quality systems and applying food regulations, legislation and compliance standards
• Demonstrated ability to provide sound technical support within cross‑functional project teams
• Strong ownership mindset, with the ability to drive projects through from concept to launch
• Analytical and solution‑focused, with well‑developed problem‑solving capabilities
• Strong organisational skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines
• Clear and effective communication skills, both written and verbal
• Collaborative team player, with the ability to also work autonomously when required
• Growth mindset, with a proactive approach to continuous improvement and innovation

Ready to Make an Impact?

This 12‑month opportunity offers the chance to build your technical capability, expand your commercial exposure and contribute to innovation projects that make a real impact. If you’re ready to grow your career and help shape the future of food innovation, we’d love to hear from you.

Apply today.

Applications close Friday 31st July 2026. Simplot reserves the right to commence recruiting activity prior to closing date.

Job Requisition ID:26478

Travel Required:Less than 10%

Location(s):GF Chifley Business Park Office - Mentone

Country:Australia

Simplot is an equal opportunity employer and encourage Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to apply. If you feel you would be a great addition to our team please apply online today, we would love to hear from you. If you require technical assistance, please email us at [e-mail]