NPD Technologist

Elevate Recruitment and Training Consultants Ltd; Nelson; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

A leader in the UK meat catering industry is seeking an NPD Technologist to develop innovative products and enhance existing recipes. The successful candidate will collaborate with various teams, conduct factory trials, and ensure food safety compliance. A degree in Food Science and relevant experience in product development within the food sector are essential. This full-time role offers development opportunities and comprehensive benefits including a pension scheme and employee discounts.

Benefits

Company pension scheme

Employee discount

Free on-site parking

Life insurance

Qualifications

• Proven experience in product development or food technology within the meat or catering sector.
• In-depth knowledge of food safety, quality assurance, and regulatory compliance.

Responsibilities

• Generate innovative ideas and develop new products aligned with customer briefs.
• Reformulate existing products to enhance quality and cost-efficiency.
• Lead factory trials and manage kitchen-to-production transitions.

Skills

Innovative thinking

Interpersonal skills

Creative problem-solving

Education

Degree in Food Science or related discipline

Food safety certification (e.g., HACCP, Level 3/4)

Job description

NPD Technologist - Meat Catering Sector

We are partnering with a well-established leader in the UK meat catering industry, supplying premium meat products to hotel, restaurant, and pub groups nationwide. They are seeking a talented NPD Technologist to drive innovation and bring new recipes and products to market.

Purpose of the Role

• Generate innovative ideas and develop new products aligned with customer briefs and emerging market trends.
• Reformulate existing products to enhance quality, cost‑efficiency, and consumer appeal.
• Lead factory trials, manage kitchen‑to‑production transitions, and oversee shelf‑life testing and taste panels.
• Maintain comprehensive records of specifications, trial outcomes, and due diligence documentation.
• Collaborate closely with internal teams to gather feedback and ensure developments meet business and customer expectations.
• Benchmark product quality and ensure full compliance with food safety regulations and industry standards.

The Ideal Candidate

• Confident, proactive, and able to work independently while communicating effectively across all levels.
• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to collaborate with cross‑functional teams and present concepts to stakeholders.
• Resilient and open to constructive feedback.

Preferred Qualifications & Experience

• Degree in Food Science or related discipline.
• Food safety certification (e.g., HACCP, Level 3/4).
• Proven experience in product development or food technology within the meat or catering sector.
• In‑depth knowledge of food safety, quality assurance, and regulatory compliance.
• Creative problem‑solving skills with the ability to balance innovation, cost, and consumer trends.

Development Opportunities

The successful candidate will have access to tailored internal and external training to enhance skills and qualifications.

Job Details

• Type: Full‑time, Permanent
• Location: On‑site (UK‑based)

Benefits Include

• Company pension scheme
• Employee discount
• Free on‑site parking
• Life insurance