Process Technologist

Pod Talent Ltd; Welwyn; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

A fast-growing food company based in Hertfordshire is seeking a Process Technologist to join their team. The role involves leading pilot plant operations, optimizing processes, and collaborating closely with NPD teams. The ideal candidate will have experience in food manufacturing and a relevant degree, with strong skills in experimentation and problem-solving. This position offers a competitive package and the chance to innovate in a dynamic environment.

Qualifications

• Experience in food and drink manufacturing, ideally with thermal processing or aseptic exposure.
• Strong process and equipment know-how, including running pilot plant trials.
• Skilled in designing experiments and analyzing data.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the pilot plant for product development.
• Maintain and ensure lab and pilot plant equipment are operational.
• Carry out experimental work and product testing to optimize processing.

Skills

Experience in food and drink manufacturing

Strong process and equipment know-how

Designing experiments

Quality testing methods

Problem-solving skills

Education

Food Science/Engineering degree

Job description

I'm excited to partner with a fast-growing, mission-driven food and nutrition brand that is looking for a Process Technologist to join their amazing team in Hertfordshire (5 days on site).

You'll work closely with the NPD team, supporting projects from idea to launch with solid process insight and data. You'll also explore new technologies and techniques, using scientific thinking to streamline processes, improve efficiency, and strengthen the quality and stability of the products.

This is a fantastic opportunity to join a company that has experienced continuous growth over the last decade and places innovation at the heart of everything they do.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the pilot plant - planning, running, and documenting trials to generate data that drives product development and process optimisation
• Maintain and look after lab and pilot plant equipment, ensuring everything is calibrated, reliable, and ready to go
• Carry out experimental work, product testing, and analysis (lab and sensory) to optimise processing, improve efficiency, and enhance product quality and stability
• Partner closely with NPD/EPD teams and support scale-up trials, providing process expertise and turning trial data into clear, actionable recommendations
• Stay across new technologies and methods, contributing to continuous improvement and keeping the plant and product capabilities moving forward

About you

• Experience in food and drink manufacturing, ideally with thermal processing, or aseptic exposure, supported by a Food Science/Engineering degree or 1-2 years' hands-on experience
• Strong process and equipment know-how, including running pilot plant trials, maintaining lab kit, and troubleshooting technical issues
• Skilled in designing experiments, analysing data, and turning results into clear actions that support process and product optimisation
• Familiar with quality testing methods - chemical, physical, microbiological, and/or sensory - to assess product stability and consistency
• Curious, collaborative, and adaptable, with strong problem-solving skills and a drive for continuous improvement in a fast-paced environment

This is an exciting opportunity with a dynamic company offering a competitive package. If this sounds like you, apply directly or get in touch with (url removed)