Senior NPD Technologist 12-18 Month FTC

Senior Development Technologist (Maternity Cover)Newcastle AreaHours: 40 per week, MondayFriday, office hoursContract: 1-year maternity cover, approximately January 2026December 2026Location: DaventrySalary: £40,000 per yearJob DescriptionWe are looking for a friendly, reliable, and hardworking individual to join our growing and established New Product Development (NPD) team.The role involves working on production projects and ensuring that products are developed and packaged to meet customer requirements, following Health & Safety and food specification standards.Purpose of the RoleTo actively pursue opportunities in both New Product Development (NPD) and Existing Product Development (EPD) using scientific, creative, and industry expertise. From internal and external briefs, you will develop and successfully launch new product concepts while continually striving for improvements on existing ranges. You will drive innovation that supports growth plans by keeping up to date with market-leading ingredients, processes, and packaging, ensuring that the launch process is followed across all accounts and products.You will provide new product concepts in response to signed-off internal and external briefsdelivered on time, to the agreed costs, and to the required quality standards. You will liaise with internal stakeholders including account managers, process, technical, and operations teams to ensure all departments are engaged in the process. You will also seek creative process solutions within existing manufacturing methods, working closely with process and operational teams.You will manage your NPD and EPD projects from concept through to successful launch.Key ResponsibilitiesDevelop and maintain strong relationships with customersSupport account managers by assisting with and attending product presentations and preparing samples as requiredJointly manage customer visits alongside account management and supply chain teamsCollaborate with the Marketing team on latest trends, ingredients, and packaging innovationsWork closely with process and operations teams to maintain a good understanding of manufacturing capabilitiesUnderstand how recipe and process adjustments impact costs and communicate changes effectivelyYou will also continuously improve existing products by:Staying informed on competitor product launchesEnsuring your customers products remain best in classYou will keep up to date on the latest trends by researching markets and identifying new ideas for packaging and ingredients. You will liaise with internal and external suppliers to build knowledge and awareness of new materials and technologies.Administrative and organisational responsibilities include ensuring all databases (e.g. costings systems) are accurate, complete, and up to date, as well as managing your workload efficiently, supporting team members, and ensuring coverage during absences.You will maintain and promote excellent Health & Safety, hygiene, and Quality Assurance standards within the development kitchen, ensuring compliance with all business and technical requirements including BRC and PPC standards.Qualifications & ExperienceDegree/HND (preferably Masters) in Food Science, Food Technology, Chemistry, or a related disciplineMinimum 12 years in a Senior Development role within the food industry (or similar sector)34 years of customer-facing experienceStrong planning, organisation, and communication skillsAbility to work independently and take initiativeA genuine passion for food and innovationProficiency in Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, and ExcelGood working knowledge of HACCP principlesWe Are Also Open To:Applicants with slightly less experience may be considered for a Development Technologist position (£34,000£35,000 per year).BenefitsBereavement leaveCompany eventsCompany pensionCycle to work schemeDiscounted or free foodEmployee discountFree flu jabsFree parkingHealth & wellbeing programmeLanguage trainingOn-site parkingReferral programmeStore discountsJob Type: Full-time, Temporary (12 months)Work Location: In personTPBN1_UKTJ

Created: 2025-12-16