Process Technologist
*Location: Suffolk
*Job Type: Full-time, Permanent
*Salary: C.£55k
*Generous Benefits Package
Join a fully fledged UK FMCG challenger brand as a Senior Process Technologist. We are dedicated to uncompromising quality, producing 100% human-quality meat that’s gently cooked and frozen for freshness. This role is an exciting opportunity to lead product concepts into scalable, repeatable, and operationally viable manufacturing processes and oversee product launches into regular production.
Day-to-day of the role:
*Provide input into product development projects at the concept definition phase and assess equipment suitability/needs.
*Own line trial scheduling, cross-functional setup, lead execution, ensuring compliance with factory processes, food safety, and health and safety.
*Ensure the pre-defined trial goals are successfully achieved and interpret learning to inform next steps or changes where needed.
*Define parameters and settings for production on the main line to match concept samples and pilot kitchen products during validation and scale-up phases.
*Trial new equipment (upscaled for line) to validate it meets expectations, supports volumes, and delivers the desired product results.
*Support with In-Home Panel fulfilment to active customers.
*Ensure new product formulations are correctly set up for line execution.
*Own preparation of trial-related paperwork and handover to technical/ops in a timely manner.
*Summarise process parameters and pilot learnings for decision-making.
*Develop or update production SOPs for new processes and train operators for production handover.
*Supervise the first production day and support with process & product expertise.
*Document and record validation details in collaboration with other teams.
*Coordinate product launch dates in collaboration with Planning, Product Strategy, and Operations.
*Undertake post-launch review to improve process and products going forward.
Required Skills & Qualifications:
*Food Science / Food Technology / Process Engineering Degree.
*HACCP and Food Safety Certificate.
*Minimum of 5 years of experience in FMCG or a related industry.
*Proven experience leading factory scale trials and production upscales from pilot kitchen to main line into launch.
*Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret data to inform product or process decisions.
*Excellent communication skills, problem-solving abilities, and analytical thinking.
*Ability to operate independently within defined project scopes and report back on progress in a timely manner.
*Comfortable delivering high-quality outputs suitable for stage gate decisions.
Benefits:
*Competitive salary and benefits package.
*Opportunity to work in a dynamic and innovative environment.
*Be part of a mission-driven company that puts cat wellbeing at the forefront.
*Collaborative and supportive team culture.
To apply for the Process Technologist position, please submit your CV and cover letter detailing your relevant experience and why you are interested in this position.