Technologist

Cardiff Metropolitan University; United Kingdom; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading educational institution in the UK is seeking a knowledgeable individual to provide technical support to food manufacturing businesses. The role involves introducing best practices in food safety, mentoring Work Placements, and guiding SMEs on compliance. The ideal candidate will have a degree in Food Science or equivalent, experience in food manufacturing, and excellent communication skills. This position offers a chance to work on impactful projects within the food industry.

Qualifications

• Degree in a relevant science discipline or equivalent experience in food manufacturing.
• Practical experience in food manufacturing technical roles across at least two product categories.
• Experience supporting or leading third-party audit preparation and compliance.

Responsibilities

• Introduce best practices in food safety and quality.
• Manage and mentor Work Placements in achieving technical objectives.
• Identify deficiencies in food safety and hygiene.

Skills

Practical experience in food manufacturing technical roles

Strong knowledge of food legislation

Effective verbal and written communication skills

Experience in data analysis

Strong interpersonal skills

Education

Degree in Food Science or Food Technology

Level 3 HACCP certification

Level 3 Food Safety in Manufacturing

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

Core purpose of role
Responsibility for the delivery of technical support to the food manufacturing sector in Wales via Welsh Government funded projects, and the UK Food Industry via ZERO2FIVE Food Industry Centre mechanisms. The role provides the opportunity to transfer knowledge to and from the ZERO2FIVE Technical Team, food manufacturers and stakeholders

Key responsibilities and contributions

1. Introduce best practices in terms of food safety and quality to food manufacturing businesses through technical assistance and knowledge transfer
2. Responsibility for managing and mentoring the Work Placements in achieving agreed technical objectives in relation to program outputs
3. Identify key deficiencies in food safety, quality and hygiene in the operations of industrial partners through gap analyses and internal audits
4. Determine the training needs of the business partners and identify appropriate corrective action plans to encourage continuous improvement
5. Review, follow and transfer best practice in all technical activities, compliance with quality and hygiene in the industry with the identified partner food manufacturing business
6. Provide guidance to SMEs on technical compliance, food safety, and third party accreditation (e.g., BRCGS, SALSA)
7. Assist in developing, validating and launching new food products and processes in accordance with legislation and quality standards
8. Support partner companies to prepare for and conduct second and third party audits
9. Create and update policies, procedures, and monitoring systems within the FIC Quality Management System
10. Carry out product testing, including organoleptic evaluation, nutritional analysis, and shelf life assessment, following defined protocols
11. Represent the Food Industry Centre at national and international events, conferences and exhibitions
12. Support business development and provide training to staff and industry partners as part of ongoing efforts to improve skills and CPD

Person specification

• Degree in a relevant science discipline (e.g. Food Science or Food Technology) or equivalent food manufacturing experience.
• Level 3 HACCP and Level 3 Food Safety in Manufacturing, or equivalent food manufacturing practical experience

Essential experience, knowledge and skills

1. Practical experience in food manufacturing technical or NPD roles across at least two product categories.
2. Strong knowledge of current food legislation, HACCP implementation, and quality management systems (e.g. BRCGS).
3. Experience supporting or leading third-party audit preparation and compliance.
4. Competent in Microsoft Office, including database and spreadsheet use.
5. Effective verbal and written communication skills for engaging with all levels within partner companies.
6. Experience in data analysis and report writing within the food sector.
7. Strong interpersonal skills, with a collaborative and adaptable approach to problem-solving.
8. Proven ability to manage time, prioritise tasks, and work under pressure to meet deadlines.
9. Willingness to travel regularly and attend events nationally and internationally.
10. Demonstrated commitment to teamworking, confidentiality, and professional development (CPD).

Desirable

1. Experience in working with analytical techniques (e.g. pH, Aw, Brix), sensory evaluation, or NPD across multiple product categories.
2. Background in project management or leading end-to-end technical projects in a food manufacturing context.
3. Experience working at the academic–industry interface, supporting research, innovation, or enterprise initiatives.