Innovation assistant

Role Overview

This is an excellent opportunity to join a growing food manufacturing business and play a key role in product development and factory trials. The successful candidate will work within a well‑equipped laboratory and production environment, supporting new product development, trials, and continuous improvement initiatives. Full training will be provided on specialist equipment and processes.

This role would suit a practical, detail‑oriented individual who enjoys hands‑on work, teamwork, and working within a fast‑paced food manufacturing environment.

• Accurately measure, mix, and prepare batches and flavours in line with standardised and evolving recipes.
• Maintain a clean, organised, and hygienic laboratory environment in full compliance with HACCP, GMP, and food safety standards.
• Set up, operate, monitor, dismantle, and clean processing equipment such as mixers, ovens, and extruders (full training provided).
• Support factory and pilot‑scale trials, ensuring activities are completed safely and efficiently.
• Maintain accurate and up‑to‑date trial documentation, batch records, and process data.
• Manage and maintain laboratory ingredients, ensuring correct stock rotation and availability.
• Follow production and trial schedules to ensure timely completion of all activities.
• Carry out quality checks on ingredients and trial products, including weight, portion, freshness, and specification compliance.
• Record batch numbers, production volumes, and any deviations from agreed processes.
• Assist with packaging and labelling of trial materials when required.
• Work collaboratively with Production, New Product Development, and Technical teams.
• Maintain tool, equipment, and parts logs.
• Comply with all company health, safety, hygiene, and legal requirements at all times.

• Must have strong maths skills
• able to work on your own initiative
• Ability to follow recipes, specifications, and production instructions accurately.
• Strong attention to detail with good organisational and time management skills.
• A proactive team player with good communication skills.
• Physically capable of lifting up to 25kg and working in warm production environments, in line with health and safety guidance.
• Flexible approach to working hours, including early mornings or late evenings when required.
• Spoken English sufficient to understand instructions, safety procedures, and documentation.

• Industrial food manufacturing and laboratory setting.
• Role involves standing for extended periods.
• Exposure to flour dust, heat, and noise.
• Strict adherence to PPE, hygiene, and food safety standards is required.

• Full training on equipment and processes.
• A supportive team environment with opportunities to learn and develop within food manufacturing and product development.
• The chance to be directly involved in new product trials and innovation.
• A stable role within a regulated and professional working environment.

• Maths
• English
• HACCP
• Food safety
• Initiative

Entry level

Full‑time

Administrative

Food Production