Technologist

To support the delivery of technical support to the food and drink manufacturing sector in Wales, we're looking for two technical professionals to join the ZERO2FIVE Food Industry Centre. In this role, you'll work with food and drink manufacturers and wider industry stakeholders to share knowledge, improve food safety and quality practices, and support continuous improvement across the sector.

You'll have the opportunity to collaborate with businesses, industry partners and the ZERO2FIVE Technical Team, helping organisations develop technical capability while contributing to the growth and success of the food and drink industry in Wales.

You'll play a key role in:

- Introducing best practice in food safety and quality through technical assistance and knowledge transfer.
- Identifying opportunities for improvement through gap analysis and internal audits.
- Providing guidance on technical compliance, food safety requirements and third-party accreditation, including BRCGS and SALSA.
- Supporting the development, validation and launch of new food products and processes in line with legislation and quality standards.
- Managing and mentoring Work Placements to achieve agreed technical objectives and programme outputs.
- Representing ZERO2FIVE at events, conferences and exhibitions while supporting business development, training and continuous professional development initiatives.

What you'll bring:

You'll bring substantial experience in a technical, quality or NPD role within the food and drink manufacturing sector, across at least two product categories, together with a strong understanding of food legislation, quality management systems and regulatory compliance. You'll be comfortable working collaboratively with businesses and stakeholders, helping to identify opportunities for improvement and implement effective solutions.

Your communication skills will enable you to build effective relationships with partners at all levels, while your analytical approach will support the preparation of reports, audits and technical assessments. You'll be organised, adaptable and able to manage competing priorities to meet deadlines.

Additionally, you'll:

- Hold a degree in a relevant science discipline (e.g. Food Science or Food Technology), together with Level 3 HACCP and Level 3 Food Safety in Manufacturing qualifications, or equivalent food manufacturing experience.
- Have experience supporting or leading third-party audit preparation and compliance activities.
- Demonstrate experience of data analysis and report writing within the food sector.
- Bring excellent interpersonal skills, a collaborative approach to problem solving, and a commitment to teamworking, confidentiality and continuous professional development.
- Be willing to travel regularly and attend events nationally and internationally.

Benefits:

- Annual leave of 35 days, plus 12 bank holiday / concessionary days.
- Membership of the Local Government Pension Scheme with generous contributions.
- Excellent family friendly policies.
- Opportunities to learn and develop your skills with access to library and digital services facilities.
- Excellent sports and fitness facilities with subsidised membership.
- Free family access to independent specialist wellbeing support provider, Health Assured.