NPD Technologist
Overview:
NPD Technologist
Humdinger, Sherburn in Elmet
Are you passionate about innovation and bringing new products to life? We’re looking for a dynamic and motivated NPD Technologist to join our team and play a crucial role in delivering cutting-edge products from Concept to Launch!
Position type: Full time, PermanentHours: 37.5
Hours: Monday - Friday, 08:30 - 16:30
Breaks: 30 minutes
Responsibilities:
Supporting the Development Process:
- Follow the NPD development timeline, ensuring all requirements (ingredients, equipment, cost, HACCP, Recipe Professor, etc.) are met by liaising with internal and external teams.
- Manage sample requests, developing samples as needed and keeping the NPD Manager and Innovations Team updated on progress.
- Work with Supplier Assurance to ensure new raw materials meet customer codes of practice and company standards.
Documentation & Record Keeping:
- Record weights, process methods, and recipes in the Recipe Professor system, ensuring updates are made throughout the development cycle.
- Complete Feasibility Assessments with Operations, Technical, and Supply Chain teams, identifying and mitigating any risks before customer presentations.
- Document and track the Bill of Materials to ensure accuracy from development to launch.
- ‘Sent sample’ emails to be sent to relevant parties with sign off comments from NPD Manager.
Packaging & Trial Coordination:
- Assist the Packaging Developer in defining the right pack size during development.
- Coordinate with the Factory team to agree on pre-trial objectives and ensure trials are completed on schedule, in line with critical path timelines.
- Ensure post-trial reports are documented, shared with the team, and follow up on actions for a smooth product launch.
Quality & Compliance:
- Periodically evaluate shelf life for all new and existing products, working with the Technical team to complete documentation and photos for customer approval.
- Oversee Nutritional Testing and validate EPD Nutritional data, keeping the Specifications Team updated.
- Document Quality Attributes for new and existing products, ensuring they are signed off by Operations & Technical before being sent to the Customer Technologist for final approval.
Team Collaboration & Stakeholder Communication:
- Ensure Pre-Pack Launch Meetings (PPLM’s) are completed on time, covering all aspects of the product, and hand over workbooks to the Factory.
- Attend internal and customer-facing meetings, providing regular updates on product development to key stakeholders.
Qualifications:
Educational Background:
- Bachelor’s Degree (or equivalent) in a Food Science, Food Technology, or related technical subject.
Practical Experience:
- Some hands-on experience in developing food products, with a preference for experience in Snacking and/or Confectionery development.
Interpersonal & Team Skills:
- Excellent communication skills, with the ability to engage both at a technical and commercial level.
- Strong team player who understands the shared needs of the team and works collaboratively to achieve common goals.
- Adaptable to changing priorities, able to remain calm and focused as project requirements shift.
IT & Recipe Management Expertise:
- Good IT skills, with previous experience using Recipe Management Systems (e.g., Recipe Professor or similar software).
Project Management & Organisation:
- Solid resource and project management skills, with the ability to keep track of multiple tasks and deadlines simultaneously.
- Detail-conscious, with an innate ability to get all the small details right and ensure precision in documentation.
Work Under Pressure:
- Ability to remain effective in a fast-paced environment.
Rewards Benefits:
- Attractive Company Pension Scheme and Life Assurance x4 basic salary
- Paycare company-Paid Health Care Cash Plan, 24/7 GP & rewards for high street and retailer discounts.
- Generous Annual Leave: 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays
- Holiday Purchase Scheme
- Cycle to Work Scheme
- Electric Car Scheme
- Charity Involvement
- Staff Shop Discounts
- Employee Values Awards
- Referral Bonus Vouchers
- Training and Development Opportunities
- Free Parking
- ESG Commitment
- Access to Grocery Aid Charity Support
About Us:
At Humdinger (formally Kinnerton Confectionery), we transform snacking and chocolate into delectable snacks for both our in-house label and renowned branded ranges. With a robust and continually growing portfolio, we've earned compliments for our commitment to quality and continuous product innovation.You might have enjoyed our products before, perhaps without even realising it!
Our manufacturing site is based in Sherburn in Elmet.
What sets us apart is our distinct offering to customers, characterised by our nut-safe promise and unwavering dedication to product innovation.
Join us at Humdinger, where innovation, quality, and a rich history blend to create an extraordinary brand experience.
Application & Interview Process:
Humdinger is an equal opportunities employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.
Your application will be reviewed and entered into the selection process, if successful you will receive a call or email from a member of our Recruitment or HR Team (PLEASE CHECK YOUR JUNK MAIL), if successful, your application will be sent to the hiring manager for review.There will be one online Teams interview and one on-site interview with a factory tour.