Product Development Technologist (NPD)

Norfolk Foods; City of Melbourne; On-site; AUD 85,000 - 110,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary package

Job summary

Norfolk Food Pty Ltd in Coburg, Victoria invites a Product Development Technologist (NPD) to lead meat product development from concept to commercialization, collaborating with production, QA, procurement and retailers.

You will ensure products meet Coles requirements, manage projects, create specs, participate in trials and factory validations, and drive innovative product launches in a fast-paced environment.

Qualifications

• 3+ years in a New Product Development role within food manufacturing.
• Degree in Food Technology, Food Science, Meat Science, Food Engineering or related discipline.
• Experience in meat processing/manufacturing facility.

Responsibilities

• Develop new meat products and improve existing ranges.
• Manage product development projects from concept through to factory implementation.
• Create and maintain product specifications, recipes and technical documentation.
• Ensure products comply with food safety, quality, and Coles requirements.
• Liaise with customers, suppliers and internal stakeholders during development.
• Conduct product trials, sensory evaluations and factory validations.

Skills

NPD experience

Meat processing

HACCP/GMP knowledge

Coles requirements

Coles Fusion usage

Project management

Strong communication

Education

Food Technology / Food Science degree

Tools

Coles Fusion

Job description

Norfolk Food Pty Ltd
Location: Coburg, Victoria
Employment Type: Full-Time

Product Development Technologist (NPD)

About Norfolk Food

Norfolk Food is a growing and innovative food manufacturing company based in Coburg, Victoria. We are committed to delivering high-quality meat products that meet customer expectations, industry standards, and retailer requirements. We are currently seeking an experienced and motivated Product Development Technologist (NPD) to join our New Product Development team.

About the Role

As a Product Development Technologist, you will be responsible for developing and improving meat products from concept to commercialization. You will work closely with production, quality assurance, procurement, and customers to ensure products meet quality, safety, and retailer specifications, particularly Coles requirements.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop new meat products and improve existing product ranges.
• Manage product development projects from concept through to factory implementation.
• Create and maintain product specifications, recipes, and technical documentation.
• Ensure all products comply with food safety, quality, and retailer requirements.
• Liaise with customers, suppliers, and internal stakeholders throughout the product development process.
• Conduct product trials, sensory evaluations, and factory validations.
• Work closely with production teams to ensure successful product launches.
• Ensure compliance with Coles technical, quality, and packaging requirements.
• Utilise and maintain product specifications through Coles Fusion.
• Monitor market trends, ingredients, and innovations to identify new opportunities.

Skills and Experience Required

Essential

• Degree qualification in Food Technology, Food Science, Meat Science, Food Engineering, or a related discipline.
• Minimum 3 years' experience in a New Product Development (NPD) role within a food manufacturing environment.
• Previous experience working in a meat processing or meat manufacturing facility.
• Sound understanding of food safety, HACCP, GMP, and quality systems.
• Strong knowledge of Coles supplier requirements and specifications.
• Hands-on experience using Coles Fusion.
• Excellent project management and organizational skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
• Knowledge and experience in extruder operations (or desire to learn)
• High level of attention to detail and methodical approach to managing workload
• Creative mind and exceptional sensory
• Able to take instructions, work both autonomously and in a team
• Excellent problem solving and communication skills

Desirable

• Experience working with major supermarket retailers.
• Knowledge of product commercialisation and factory trials.
• Understanding of Australian food regulations and labelling requirements.

Why Join Norfolk Food?

• Competitive salary package.
• Opportunity to work on innovative products within a growing business.
• Supportive and collaborative team environment.
• Career development and professional growth opportunities.
• Convenient Coburg location.

If you have a passion for food innovation, experience in meat processing, and a strong understanding of Coles requirements and Coles Fusion, we would love to hear from you.