Process Technologist

Barfoots of Botley; Chichester; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading food production company in Chichester is seeking a Process Technologist to join their Technical Team. The role involves managing factory trials, ensuring compliance with quality standards, and collaborating with various teams. Ideal candidates will have experience in food manufacturing, strong understanding of HACCP, and excellent attention to detail. This position offers significant development opportunities and a range of employee benefits.

Benefits

Company pension scheme

24/7 Online GP access

Life Assurance

Discounted leisure membership

Free onsite parking

Qualifications

• Experience in food manufacturing or fresh produce environment.
• Understanding of quality management systems.
• Experience managing product launches.

Responsibilities

• Manage factory trials for new and existing products.
• Translate samples into scalable factory processes.
• Ensure compliance with food safety standards.

Skills

Food safety knowledge

HACCP understanding

Factory trials management

Attention to detail

Strong communication skills

Teamwork

Education

Degree in Food Science or related discipline

Job description

Overview

A fantastic opportunity for a Process Technologist to join our busy Technical Team. Reporting directly to the Head of Factory Production & Technical, candidates will enjoy full concept to launch project engagement., Product Launches & Trials

Responsibilities

• Manage and lead factory trials for new and existing products, ensuring accurate process control and documentation.
• Translate kitchen or development samples into scalable factory processes.
• Ensure all new product introductions meet agreed specifications, quality, and shelf‑life targets.
• Support pre‑production and first production runs.

Process Control & Improvement

• Develop and maintain detailed process documentation, including standard operating procedures (SOPs), process flows, and quality control parameters.
• Identify opportunities to improve efficiency, yield, and quality.
• Support root cause analysis and corrective actions for process deviations or complaints.

Technical & Retailer Compliance

• Ensure compliance with customer codes of practice, BRCGS standards & QA systems.
• Participate in retailer audits, factory visits, and technical reviews.
• Maintain accurate process records/documentation for technical and retailer approval.

Cross Functional Collaboration

• Work with NPD and Production teams to ensure technical feasibility of new concepts.
• Liaise with suppliers and customers regarding raw materials, packaging, and process capability.
• Provide technical input into continuous improvement projects and cost‑saving initiatives.

Qualifications

• Previous experience in a food manufacturing or fresh produce environment.
• Strong understanding of HACCP, food safety, and quality management systems.
• Proven experience managing factory trials and product launches.
• Excellent attention to detail, organisation, and documentation skills.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills.
• Desirable: Degree (or equivalent) in Food Science, Food Technology, or related discipline.
• Experience working with major UK retailers (e.g., Tesco, M&S, Sainsbury's, Aldi, Lidl, etc.).
• Understanding of lean manufacturing, continuous improvement, or process validation techniques.

Why Work for Barfoots?

• Investors In People Silver Award status.
• Company pension scheme.
• 24/7 Online GP access.
• Life Assurance.
• Employee Assistance Program.
• Benefits Platform.
• Development opportunities.
• Discounted leisure membership.
• Discounted vegetable box scheme.
• Cycle to work scheme.
• Free onsite parking.
• Approved training centre for Highfield qualifications.
• Committed to Sustainability.