Food Specification Technologist

Job Title: Specification Technologist

Location: Ashford

Hours: Full Time, Monday-Friday (08:00 - 16:30)

About Our Client

Our client is a growing and innovative food manufacturer specialising in bespoke development for UK food brands.

Following significant growth in recent years, our client is entering an exciting expansion phase and is seeking a Specification Technologist to join the Team.

The Role

Generate/maintain accurate, up to date, compliant and comprehensive finished product specifications and related documents for customers.

Assist Technical Manager in maintaining supplier assurance database, supplier approval documentation and material specifications to ensure compliance with all 3rd party accreditation and internal quality management system requirements.

Key Activities & Accountabilities

• Accurate completion / review of B2B customer finished product specifications in the required formats and within agreed timescales.
• Provide additional technical information to customers in relation to finished product specification queries.
• Complete customer SAQs, supply chain mapping, nutritional calculations etc.
• Have a good understanding of all legal, 3rd party (e.g. BRCGS, Organic) & customer COP relevant to completion of customer specifications, in particular, labelling codes of practice.
• Maintain the supplier approval database e.g. 3rd party accreditation, completion of SSAQs etc. and ensure any updates are communicated within the team.
• Maintain material specifications and supporting technical documentation e.g. 3rd party processors, countries of origin, allergens, Identity Preserved (IP) status for specific ingredients, GMO status, radiological hazards, material test certification, migration & food contact information for packaging etc. and ensure any updates are communicated within the team.
• Work cross-functionally to ensure that all new raw materials are sourced and purchased from approved suppliers.
• Work with the Technical Manager to implement raw material testing requirements based on risk assessment, 3rd party/customer requirements, legality and authenticity.
• Maintain QC results database
• Maintain traceability schedule to ensure our traceability system and procedures are in line with BRCGS & the assurance schemes and key commodity accreditations we participate in.
• Assist with monitoring vendor performance as required.
• Assist with tracking and investigating latest food industry risks and alerts relevant to raw materials with suppliers.
• Maintain & analyse production records and temperature datalogger recordings.

Skills, Knowledge & Experience

• 2 years minimum experience within the food industry, in a similar role, completing finished product specifications and a background in supplier assurance.
• Understanding of food safety, legality, nutritional and product labelling requirements
• Accurate data input capabilities with an eye for detail
• VACCP and TACCP training
• Understanding of commodity accreditations (e.g. Organic etc.)
• Familiarity with customer codes of practice specific to sourcing of raw materials
• Internal audit training
• Understanding of procurement and supply chain processes

Personal Attributes

• Highly organised and detail-oriented
• Dedicated and resilient, especially during busy launch periods
• Self-motivated with a proactive mindset
• Strong team player with excellent communication skills
• Willingness to learn, develop, and progress within the business

Salary & Benefits

• Salary: They want to get the right person in the role so this is up for discussion
• 25 days holiday + 8 bank holidays (following successful probation)
• Workplace pension
• Wellbeing package (including on-demand GP, health portal, eyecare support)
• Employee discounts (retail, supermarkets, DIY, entertainment, etc.)
• Regular social events and a collaborative team culture
• Opportunity to progress