Role: NPD Technologist Apprenticeship
Location: Telford, Shropshire
Salary: £25,000 - £28,000
Reporting to: Head of NPD
Benefits: Pension, Free onsite Car Parking, Employee Recognition Incentives, Learning Portal
The Business
Evolution Foods produces a variety of healthy snacking products, including dried fruit, nuts, peanut butter, and children’s puree fruit snacks.
Established in the early 2000's, the company has grown significantly, employing over 300 staff across 4 sites, 3 in Hortonwood and 1 in Halesfield, producing products for some of the UK’s major retailers, including Aldi, Lidl, Co-Op, and Home Bargains.
The Role
We are seeking a dedicated NPD Technologist to join our rapidly growing team and support the New Product Development (NPD) function. You will collaborate with both internal and external stakeholders to manage NPD and Existing Product Development (EPD) projects from concept to launch. Reporting directly to the Head of NPD, you will ensure smooth workflows, meet project timelines, and contribute to the successful development of innovative, commercially viable products.
This is an exciting opportunity to be part of a company that has achieved significant growth and established itself as an industry leader with a portfolio of innovative, first-to-market products. As an NPD Technologist, you will play a key role in shaping the future of our product offerings, working in a dynamic, fast-paced environment that thrives on creativity and food innovation. You will support the strategic goals of the NPD department, ensuring operational excellence, accuracy, and high-quality standards across all projects.
Key Responsibilities
Operational Execution
· Assist in managing NPD and EPD projects, ensuring smooth product development from concept to launch.
· Prepare product samples for internal and customer review, and coordinate with suppliers to meet project requirements.
· Benchmark competitive products and ensure timely dispatch and accurate labelling of samples.
Documentation & Compliance
· Maintain accurate, audit-ready documentation for NPD projects, ensuring compliance with regulatory and customer standards.
· Support the Head of NPD in ensuring projects adhere to HACCP and Food Safety standards.
Project Coordination
· Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure smooth communication and project progress.
· Monitor timelines and provide regular updates to keep projects on track.
Market Research & Support
· Conduct market research to identify trends, consumer preferences, and competitor activity.
· Provide insights to support strategic decision-making and contribute to product development ideas.
Stakeholder Engagement
· Maintain effective communication with internal teams and external partners.
· Represent the NPD team in customer interactions under the guidance of the Head of NPD.
Continuous Improvement & Compliance
· Identify opportunities for process improvements and stay updated on industry trends.
· Ensure all products and processes meet food safety, quality, and regulatory requirements.
Packaging & Factory Trials
· Collaborate with teams to recommend sustainable packaging solutions.
· Support factory trials to ensure smooth product transitions from development to manufacturing.
Sensory Testing
· Assist in sensory testing to ensure product quality meets customer expectations.
Degree Apprenticeship
This is a fantastic chance to earn a fully funded BSc (Hons) in Food Science and Technology through a degree apprenticeship at Harper Adams University, while gaining valuable hands-on industry experience.
The apprenticeship program starts in September and typically lasts for 4 years on a block release schedule.
Candidates should have 3 A-levels, including a science or food technology subject, or relevant industry experience, along with a minimum of Level 2 in English and Maths.
If your experience or education doesn’t fully match these requirements but you’re still interested, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.
Key Attributes:
- A passion for food, with a creative culinary flair and a drive for innovation.
- Strong organisational and time-management abilities, capable of managing multiple projects efficiently.
- Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, to engage with stakeholders at all levels.
- Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite, including Excel, Outlook, and PowerPoint.
- Self-motivated, with a positive "can-do" attitude and a commitment to supporting team goals.
Desirable Skills/Experience
- Background in Food Technology (qualification in food or similar job-related experience) or a serious personal interest in food
- HACCP Leve 2 or higher.
- Food Safety Level 2 or higher.
- Experience working in a factory or kitchen environment.
- Knowledge of food packaging and materials.
Additional Information
The NPD Technologist will deputise for the Head of NPD in routine matters when required, ensuring continuity in day-to-day operations, while deferring strategic decisions to leadership.
This role requires a full UK driving license and travel between sites or to customer meetings.
Job Types: Full-time, Permanent, Apprenticeship
Pay: £25,000.00-£28,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Company pension
- Free parking
- On-site parking
Schedule:
Application question(s):
- Do you hold three A Levels, or do you have an equivalent level of education?
- Do you have any Industry Experience?
- Do you hold a valid UK driving license?
Work Location: In person
Reference ID: NPDAPP032025
