NPD Technologist

Guangdong Yuantian Engineering Co.; Kingston upon Hull; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

Join a forward-thinking company as an NPD / Process Technologist, where you will play a pivotal role in transforming concepts into successful product launches. This position involves collaborating across departments, conducting factory trials, and ensuring compliance with specifications. You will be instrumental in managing the entire product development process, from initial trials to post-launch evaluations. If you have a passion for product innovation and a strong background in the food industry, this role offers a unique opportunity to contribute to exciting projects while ensuring the highest standards of food safety and quality.

Qualifications

• Experience in the food industry with specification writing.
• Ability to manage trial and launch phases effectively.

Responsibilities

• Liaising with departments for smooth product launch.
• Conducting factory trials and managing data collection.
• Coordinating shelf-life testing and nutritional assessments.

Skills

Specification Writing

Project Management

Data Reporting

Food Safety Knowledge

HACCP Principles

Communication Skills

Job description

NPD / Process Technologist

Reporting to the NPD Manager, you will be key in bridging the gap between concept and launch. Primary responsibilities will include conducting factory trials and completing internal and customer specifications in line with project timelines.

Scope

• Liaising with all departments to ensure a smooth transition from concept to launch
• Conducting factory trials and obtaining data on throughput, machine settings, labour requirements, wastage, weights, pH, temperatures, etc
• Co-ordinating shelf-life testing, organoleptic assessment and nutritionals
• Completing of internal specifications, e.g. QAS, recipe cards, process sheets
• Completion of customer specifications and the ongoing maintenance of existing specifications via the relevant portals, e.g. Erudus, Asda Engage
• Reviewing customer artwork in line with their Technical and labelling policies
• Creating internal labels
• To keep track of changes to labelling legislation to ensure all artwork and labels are compliant
• Being an active member and contributor to the site team, including hosting and attending relevant meetings, e.g. pre-trial meetings, pre-launch meetings, etc.
• Supporting the Development Team in the initial stages to ensure feasibility and capability are considered and provide appropriate solutions
• Liaising with ingredient, packaging and equipment suppliers to ensure food safety and quality are at the forefront of product development
• A key stakeholder in the Innovation, Renovation and Value Creation aspects of NPD
• Managing Continuous Improvement projects to maximize efficiency whilst maintaining product quality
• Post-launch wash-up and monitoring subsequent production runs
• Implementing process controls to ensure food safety is not compromised
• Presenting to customers at innovation sessions and roadshows
• Supporting the Technical Team with trending reports
  
  

The Ideal Candidate

• Essential: prior experience of working in a similar role in the food industry
• Essential: knowledge of writing specifications for customers
• Essential: experience of managing the trial and launch phases of the Product Development Process
• Attention to detail, organized, concise data reporting and an ability to manage multiple projects
• Ability to present data clearly within reports
• Confident and articulate, a continuous improvement mindset with an ability to challenge
• A good communicator who works well as part of a team
• A good understanding of Food Safety and HACCP principles