Food Science Graduate / Laboratory Technician

Manucomm Recruitment Ltd; Kidderminster; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading recruitment agency is seeking a Laboratory Technician for a 6-month contract focused on beverage development. You will support sample preparation and maintain lab operations while ensuring compliance with documentation standards. Candidates must have proven lab experience in a food or beverage environment, possess strong analytical skills, and maintain professional communication. This position offers a pay rate of £14.16 per hour and is based on-site in Kidderminster with standard working hours from Monday to Friday.

Qualifications

• Proven laboratory experience in a food or beverage environment.
• Strong analytical skills with attention to detail.
• Good telephone manner and professional communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Assist in preparing beverage samples according to specified recipes.
• Conduct longer-term research projects and compile scientific reports.
• Maintain accurate records supporting internal auditing processes.

Skills

Laboratory experience

Analytical skills

Communication skills

Attention to detail

Computer literacy

Job description

Laboratory Technician – Beverage Development Technician

• 6‑Month Contract (may be extended) • Monday – Friday | 8:00 am – 4:00 pm (37.5 hrs/week) • Location: Stourport • Pay: £14.16 per hour

Purpose of the Role

Supporting the Beverage Development team in creating and dispatching high‑quality, innovative beverage samples to customers, ensuring all project deadlines are met. The role also involves conducting longer‑term research and development work, maintaining efficient lab operations, and providing valuable insights to support product innovation.

Key Responsibilities

Sample & Project Support

• Assist the Beverage Development Technologist and Master Cider Maker in preparing beverage samples according to specified recipes.
• Support supermarket comparison shops and benchmark product purchasing.
• Package and ship beverage samples to customers in line with project timelines.

Research & Documentation

• Conduct longer‑term research projects and compile scientific and technical reports.
• Work with the Beverage Development team to write and update SOPs and Risk Assessments, ensuring all documentation is current and compliant.

Laboratory Operations

• Maintain and order lab equipment, consumables, ingredients, and packaging materials.
• Ensure efficient running of the lab through stock management and equipment upkeep.
• Operate pilot plant equipment as required.
• Carry out analytical and sensory testing on beverage products.

Administrative & Cross‑Functional Support

• Maintain accurate records and support internal auditing processes (desirable).
• Communicate effectively with customers and contractors, promoting a positive company image.
• Perform clerical and administrative tasks to support smooth department operations.

Skills & Experience Required

• Proven laboratory experience, ideally within a food or beverage environment.
• Strong analytical skills and attention to detail.
• Computer literate.
• Good telephone manner and professional communication skills.
• Understanding of administrative and customer service procedures.

This role may suit individuals with experience as QA Technician, Laboratory Assistant / Lab Technician, NPD Support Technician, Food or Beverage Lab Operative.

Commutable from Stourport, Kettering, Kidderminster, and surrounding areas.