Senior NPD Technologist

Reed Specialist Recruitment; Witton-le-Wear; On-site; GBP 31,000 - 37,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading recruitment agency is seeking a Senior NPD Technologist to drive innovation in food product development. This role involves managing the NPD process, collaborating with teams to create market-leading products, and mentoring junior staff. Ideal candidates will have 1-2 years of experience in food development and excellent project management skills. Join a forward-thinking company that values creativity and quality. Opportunity to make a significant impact in a growing sector.

Qualifications

• 1-2 years of experience in food product development.
• Strong technical knowledge in food processes is a plus.
• Full UK driving licence required.

Responsibilities

• Own the NPD process from concept through to production.
• Translate retailer briefs into viable products.
• Conduct market research to identify opportunities.
• Lead recipe development and factory trials.
• Work with teams on ingredient sourcing.
• Support junior team members.
• Deputise for the NPD Manager when needed.

Skills

Food product development

Project management

Communication skills

Creative thinking

Commercial mindset

Job description

Senior NPD Technologist

Location: County Durham

Package: up to £37,000, with Fridays WFH

Are you passionate about creating innovative food products that delight customers? Do you thrive in a fast-paced environment where creativity meets technical expertise? If so, this is your chance to take ownership of exciting projects from concept to launch.

I am collaborating with a business who are looking to take on a Senior NPD Technologist to lead the development of new and improved products for both retailer brands and their own portfolio. In this pivotal role, you'll drive innovation, mentor junior team members, and collaborate across departments to bring ideas to life. This is a perfect opportunity for someone with 1-2 years' experience to step up into a more senior position and take on a bit more responsibility in a supportive team.

What You'll Do:

• Own the NPD process from concept through to full-scale production.
• Translate retailer briefs into commercially viable, trend-led products.
• Conduct market research to identify emerging opportunities.
• Lead recipe development, factory trials, and ensure compliance with food safety standards.
• Work closely with procurement and technical teams on ingredient sourcing and value engineering projects.
• Support and guide junior team members, sharing your expertise.
• Deputise for the NPD Manager when required.

What We're Looking For:

• Proven experience in food product development, ideally within chilled or ambient categories.
• Strong technical knowledge, including thermal processing and shelf-life testing (ideal but not essential!)
• Excellent project management and communication skills.
• A creative thinker with a commercial mindset.
• Full UK driving licence

You’ll be part of a collaborative, forward-thinking team where your ideas matter. This is a fantastic opportunity to make a real impact in a growing business that values innovation and quality.

If this sounds of interest, please click apply with your updated CV and I will reach out with more information.

Unfortunately, this business is unable to offer sponsorship