NPD Technologist

Salary: £34,000 per annum
Location: Ashford, TN24
Working Pattern: Monday to Thursday (occasional Fridays as required)
Hours: 38 hours per week, Flexi start times
Overtime: Paid at 1.25x
Job Type: Full-time, Permanent

About the Role

Our client is a well-established business within the confectionery sector, specialising in high-quality chocolate-based products.

They are seeking an experienced and proactive NPD Technologist to join their team. This is a fast-paced, hands-on role where the successful candidate will be expected to hit the ground running, providing immediate support across ongoing and new product development projects.

This position offers an excellent opportunity to work closely with retailers and cross-functional teams, contributing to innovative product launches from concept through to commercialisation.

Key Responsibilities

Product Development & Innovation

• Support and lead NPD projects from concept through to launch
• Develop and refine recipes across a range of chocolate products (e.g. bars, truffles, filled and enrobed products)
• Conduct kitchen and factory trials, documenting results and driving improvements
• Assist with scaling up products from development to full production

Technical & Cross-Functional Support

• Work closely with production, quality, procurement, and commercial teams
• Attend and contribute to retailer meetings and presentations
• Provide hands-on support during factory trials and initial production runs
• Ensure projects are delivered to agreed timelines, quality, and cost targets

Compliance & Documentation

• Maintain accurate technical documentation, including specifications and formulations
• Ensure all products meet food safety, legal, and customer requirements
• Support labelling, artwork approval, and retailer compliance processes

Candidate Requirements

• Previous experience in an NPD role is essential (ideally within food or confectionery)
• Experience working with retailers and attending customer meetings
• Ability to hit the ground running and support an existing team immediately
• Strong understanding of product development processes from concept to launch
• Experience conducting factory trials and scaling up production
• Knowledge of food safety standards (e.g. HACCP) and relevant legislation
• Excellent organisational skills with the ability to manage multiple projects
• Strong communication skills and a collaborative approach
• Degree (or equivalent) in Food Science, Food Technology, or a related field

What’s on Offer

• Salary of £34,000 per annum
• 38-hour working week
• Monday to Thursday working pattern (with occasional Friday work as required)
• Overtime paid at 1.25x
• Opportunity to work on innovative, high-quality products
• Collaborative and fast-paced working environment
• Genuine opportunity to make an impact from day one