Development Technologist

JR United Kingdom; Portsmouth; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company in the food industry is seeking a Development Technologist to spearhead product development initiatives. This role involves managing new product development (NPD) and existing product development (EPD) projects while collaborating with various internal teams. The successful candidate will ensure compliance with health and safety standards and contribute to continuous innovation and improvement within the R&D department.

Qualifications

• Experience in leading NPD and EPD projects.
• Strong understanding of Health & Safety legislation.
• Ability to conduct product tests and generate reports.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage product development projects from concept to production.
• Coordinate with Technical, QA, and Supply Chain teams.
• Conduct trials and compile results for improvements.

Skills

Project Management

Recipe Formulation

Cross-Functional Collaboration

Continuous Improvement

Education

Relevant degree in Food Science or related field

Job description

Development Technologist – Job Description

Reporting to: R&D Manager

Location: Winchester

Department: R&D

Role Overview

As a Development Technologist, you will play a key role in developing and improving products, managing NPD and EPD projects from concept through to launch. You will lead the day-to-day delivery of development activity, coordinate cross-functional collaboration, and contribute to continuous improvement across processes and procedures.

Key Responsibilities

Health & Safety

• Comply with all Health & Safety legislation and internal procedures relevant to the role
• Identify and report any issues or concerns

Product Development

• Lead and manage NPD and EPD projects in line with agreed processes and timelines
• Develop new products from concept to production, including recipe formulation and improvements
• Source raw materials and gather relevant information (pricing, specifications, supplier accreditation, etc.)
• Conduct trials, create process specs, and generate sensory and technical reports
• Carry out costings and theoretical nutrition calculations during development
• Coordinate and communicate with Technical, QA, Supply Chain, Production, and Marketing functions
• Maintain accurate project folders and documentation, including trial records and gate approvals
• Ensure the kitchen is well-maintained and equipment is used safely and efficiently
• Conduct product tests such as heat shock, melting resistance, and scoopability, and compile results
• Optimise production processes and provide support to manufacturing teams where needed

General Responsibilities

• Promote and uphold the company’s servant leadership values
• Contribute to continuous improvement and innovation within the R&D team
• Work collaboratively with internal teams and external stakeholders
• Communicate clearly via email, phone, and meetings
• Share knowledge and celebrate best practices and high performance

Values & Culture

The company promotes a culture based on servant leadership. Desired traits include:

• Patience and kindness in supporting colleagues
• Humility and openness to feedback
• Honesty, trustworthiness, and forgiveness
• Dedication, teamwork, and a commitment to innovation