NPD Lab Technician - 6-Month FTC

Reed Specialist Recruitment; Maidstone; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading recruitment firm is seeking a detail-oriented NPD Lab Technician for a 6-month fixed-term contract in Maidstone, UK. The successful candidate will manage lab operations, run key tests, and collaborate with product development teams in a dynamic food sector environment. A degree in Food Science or Chemistry is crucial, alongside a proactive attitude and knowledge of ingredient functionality. This role offers potential career growth and opportunities to attend industry events.

Benefits

Opportunities to attend industry trade shows

Clear path for career growth

Innovative work environment

Qualifications

• Degree-qualified in Food Science, Chemistry, or a related field.
• Experience in lab operations and equipment handling is beneficial.
• Right to work in the UK is essential.

Responsibilities

• Take full ownership of lab operations including maintenance and stock management.
• Run tests to support product development.
• Collaborate closely with teams to meet project briefs.

Skills

Ingredient functionality knowledge

Lab operations experience

Organised and proactive

Education

Degree in Food Science, Chemistry, or related field

Job description

NPD Lab Technician - 6-month FTC

Location: Maidstone
Type: Full-time
Start Date: Immediate

I am collaborating with a business who are looking for a hands‑on, detail‑driven NPD Lab Technician to join a leading Innovation Team in the food sector. This is a brilliant role for someone passionate about food science and product development, ready to make an impact from day one.

What You'll Do

• Take full ownership of lab operations – equipment maintenance, calibration, and ingredient stock management.
• Prepare and dispatch customer samples with precision and speed.
• Run key tests (pH, TA, Brix) to support cutting‑edge product development.
• Evaluate new ingredients for taste, solubility, and sensory performance.
• Collaborate closely with the Product Development Manager and commercial teams to deliver on briefs.
• Keep SOPs sharp and up‑to‑date, ensuring compliance and efficiency.
• Stay ahead of trends in functional ingredients and nutrition to fuel innovation.

What We're Looking For

• Degree‑qualified in Food Science, Chemistry, or related field.
• Experience in lab operations and equipment handling (not essential but would be beneficial).
• Strong knowledge of ingredient functionality (vitamins, minerals, flavours, additives).
• Organised, proactive, and passionate about food innovation.
• Right to work in the UK is essential.
• Driving License and car are essential due to site location.

Why Join?

• Be part of a forward‑thinking innovation hub.
• Opportunities to attend industry trade shows and conferences.
• Clear path for career growth and development.

If this looks of interest, please apply with your CV and I will reach out with more information.