Specification Technologist
Job now closed
Castlewellan
Reporting to: NPD Manager
As part of both the NPD and Technical Teams you will play a key role in ensuring that the company operates successfully by writing specifications for new and re-developed existing products to the high standard required. Your position will involve liaising with customers and suppliers. You will assist with advising on legal, safety and quality standards and providing technical support to other departments within the business where required and deemed within your capability. You will work closely with Product Development in the creative process and be responsible for writing specifications for new products.
Key tasks and duties
- Manage bespoke customer specification systems and technical libraries to ensure they are appropriately maintained and updated.
- Build and maintain customer QAS documents. Manage new products and amend existing products.
- You will also be required to request information from suppliers (e.g. raw materials, specifications and packaging) and monitor supplier responses and flagging up overdue issues.
- You will ensure that all ingredients, processes and products meet food safety requirements.
- You will provide product specifications for internal tasting sessions.
- Generate and verify artwork and finished printed packaging and labels to ensure compliance with our customers and legal requirements.
- Accountable for approving all Pack Copy Information ensuring that all legislative requirements are met and are in line with Company procedure.
- Support the NPD team with the development, testing and production launches of new products within TS Foods.
- Undertake re-formulation of current products and assessment of alternative materials as required.
- Work with Product Development Manager in responding to customer briefs to develop innovative yet viable product ranges
- Maintain effective lines of communication between the Technical Department, Commercial, NPD, Production and the rest of the business, and also externally where appropriate.
- Liaising with the production department on all technical issues regarding product safety, quality & legality.
- Support the NPD Manager in all administration duties for the department.
- Following the NPD processes so all due diligence is met.
- Contribute in all areas where necessary to ensure the continued smooth running of TS Foods.
- Comply with all health & safety legislation regarding food hygiene and safe working practices.
- Any other duties as requested by your Manager that is deemed to be within your capability.
General:
- Comply with site Health and Safety requirements.
- Observe all Company Procedures at all times.
- Have a flexible and positive approach to the role.
| Criteria | Essential | Desirable |
| Qualifications/ Attainments | 1-2 years’ experience working in a production, technical or development role within a busy food processing environment | Industry recognised technical qualification – HND/Degree level qualification in a science or food technology. Advanced Food Hygiene qualified. |
| Relevant Knowledge & Experience | Experience of making improvements regarding food management and cooking. Working within technical specifications to deliver top quality products. Appropriate training on food legislation. Experience of working in a busy and demanding customer based environment. | Previous experience of working within a BRC accredited environment Previous experience of writing product specifications. Knowledge of food nutrition and labelling. |
| Skills & Competencies | Ability to write reports and understand documentation relevant to processes and procedures relating to food safety and management.Ability to effectively plan and organise in a busy production environment.Numerate with excellent attention to detail.A team player with a high level of flexibility and ability to problem solve in a fast paced environment with conflicting priorities. Excellent verbal and written communication skills. Self-motivated and highly resilient person who can work under pressure. Evidence of the ability to apply a logical and methodical approach to work.Competent computer skills including Microsoft Excel & PowerPoint.Ability to take accountability and work on own initiative. Excellent organisational skills. | Experience of using a range of retailer database systems. |
| Circumstances | A driven and flexible approach to work to meet the needs of the business & role. Full valid driving licence and access to a vehicle for business use. Fully flexible with shift, working patterns and tasks. Ability to deal with the physical demands of the role. |
How to apply?
If you are interested, please send your CV to Maria.Jennings@tsfoods.co.uk.