NPD Technologist- Drinks/ Beverages

Associ8 Solutions; Manchester; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading beverage innovation firm in Manchester is seeking an NPD Technologist to drive product development from concept to launch. The ideal candidate will have proven experience in the beverage sector and a strong understanding of formulation and processing techniques. Join a dynamic team focused on creativity and quality, and help shape the future of drinks innovation.

Qualifications

• Experience in NPD within the beverage or drinks sector (alcoholic or non-alcoholic).
• Strong understanding of formulation, flavour development, and processing techniques.
• Knowledge of food safety, labelling regulations, and retailer requirements.
• Excellent project management and communication skills.
• A creative mindset with a practical, solutions-focused approach.

Responsibilities

• Develop and refine beverage formulations across categories.
• Collaborate with suppliers, flavour houses, and internal teams to source ingredients and packaging.
• Manage trials, shelf-life testing, and scale-up processes.
• Ensure all products meet regulatory, customer, and internal standards.
• Support artwork approval, specifications, and technical documentation.
• Stay ahead of trends and contribute to the innovation pipeline.

Job description

Overview

Are you passionate about creating the next big thing in drinks? Do you thrive in a fast-paced, flavour-forward environment where innovation meets precision? We're looking for an NPD Technologist with proven experience in the beverage industry to join a dynamic technical team and help shape the future of liquid innovation.

The Role

As NPD Technologist, you'll be at the heart of product development—from concept to launch. Working closely with cross-functional teams, you'll bring bold ideas to life while ensuring compliance, quality, and commercial viability.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and refine beverage formulations across categories (RTDs, juices, low/no alcohol, functional drinks, etc.)
• Collaborate with suppliers, flavour houses, and internal teams to source ingredients and packaging
• Manage trials, shelf-life testing, and scale-up processes
• Ensure all products meet regulatory, customer, and internal standards
• Support artwork approval, specifications, and technical documentation
• Stay ahead of trends and contribute to the innovation pipeline

What We're Looking For

• Experience in NPD within the beverage or drinks sector (alcoholic or non-alcoholic)
• Strong understanding of formulation, flavour development, and processing techniques
• Knowledge of food safety, labelling regulations, and retailer requirements
• Excellent project management and communication skills
• A creative mindset with a practical, solutions-focused approach

Why Join?

You'll be part of a collaborative team that values creativity, quality, and continuous improvement. This is a fantastic opportunity to work with a brand that's pushing boundaries in the drinks space and investing in innovation. Ready to stir things up? Apply now and let's create something extraordinary