Process & Packaging Technologist, Process & Packaging Technologist

Pilgrim's Europe; Huntingdon; On-site; GBP 42,000 - 62,000; Full time

Job summary

Pilgrim's is seeking a Process & Packaging Technologist to join our NPD team in the Huntingdon area. You will develop innovative packaging solutions, support new product launches, and drive continuous improvement across manufacturing operations.

You will identify and implement packaging improvements to boost productivity, reduce waste, and deliver operational efficiencies in collaboration with Operations, Technical, Commercial, Engineering, Innovation, and Packaging teams.

Qualifications

• Experience in packaging development and/or artwork management.
• Strong attention to detail.
• Degree in Food Science or related discipline.

Responsibilities

• Lead packaging development activities for new product launches and improvement projects.
• Coordinate packaging and artwork approvals.
• Create compliant files for in-house film and label printing and release to production.
• Support factory trials and product launches.
• Continuously review packaging systems and processes for efficiency.
• Identify opportunities to reduce costs and improve yields.

Skills

Packaging development

Artwork management

Attention to detail

Cross-functional teamwork

Project management

Education

Food Science degree

Tools

Microsoft Excel

Microsoft Word

Adobe PDF

Job description

Process & Packaging Technologist

Location: Huntingdon & Peterborough

Department: NPD (New Product Development)

Reporting to: Concept Product Manager

About The Role

We are looking for a talented and driven Process & Packaging Technologist to join our NPD team. This is an exciting opportunity to play a key role in developing innovative packaging solutions, supporting new product launches, and driving continuous improvement initiatives across our manufacturing operations.

As the Process & Packaging Technologist, you will be responsible for identifying, developing, and implementing packaging improvements that enhance productivity, reduce waste, improve yields, and deliver operational efficiencies. You will work closely with cross-functional teams including Operations, Technical, Commercial, Engineering, Innovation, and Packaging to ensure successful project delivery and business growth.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead packaging development activities for new product launches and business improvement projects.
• Manage and coordinate packaging and artwork approvals.
• Create legally compliant files for in-house film and label printing, ensuring accurate release to production.
• Support and coordinate factory trials and product launches.
• Continuously review and improve packaging systems, manufacturing processes, and operational efficiencies.
• Identify opportunities to reduce costs, improve yields, and enhance product quality.
• Evaluate alternative packaging materials, suppliers, and equipment to improve performance and productivity.
• Support Operational Excellence (OPEX) initiatives where applicable.
• Provide packaging and process information to support accurate customer specifications.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with equipment suppliers and technology partners.
• Collaborate with key stakeholders across multiple business functions to share knowledge, performance insights, and best practices.
• Communicate project updates, risks, and opportunities across the wider business.
• Promote sustainable working practices, including waste reduction and recycling initiatives.
• Provide cover and support for NPI colleagues when required to ensure continuity of business activities.

About You

We're looking for a proactive and detail-oriented individual who thrives in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

Essential Skills & Experience

• Proven experience of packaging development and/or artwork management.
• Excellent attention to detail.
• Relevant degree or third-level qualification, ideally in Food Science or a related discipline.
• Strong communication skills with the ability to engage professionally with customers, suppliers, and internal stakeholders.
• Experience working effectively within cross-functional teams.
• Excellent organisational and project management skills.
• Self-motivated with the ability to work independently and solve problems proactively.
• Strong decision-making and analytical skills.
• Good working knowledge of Microsoft Excel, Word, Email systems, Internet applications, and Adobe PDF software.
• Flexible approach to working hours when required.
• Full clean driving licence and willingness to travel between sites.

What Success Looks Like

In this role, you will contribute to:

• Improved site profitability and operational performance.
• Successful product launches delivered on time and to specification.
• Packaging innovations that reduce costs and improve efficiency.
• Continuous improvement of manufacturing and packaging processes.
• Strong collaboration across teams and functions.
• Sustainable business practices and environmental improvements.

Our Values

At Pilgrim's, Our Values Shape Everything We Do

• Availability - We are open, responsive, and ready to embrace new challenges.
• Humility - We listen, respect others, and value different perspectives.
• Discipline - We deliver on our commitments internally and externally.
• Sincerity - We act with honesty, integrity, and respect.
• Simplicity, Ownership & Determination - We focus on what matters most and take responsibility for delivering success.

If you're passionate about packaging innovation, continuous improvement, and making a real impact within a dynamic food manufacturing environment, we'd love to hear from you.