R&D Technician

Valeo Foods Group; York and North Yorkshire; On-site; GBP 25,000 - 28,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading food company in York seeks an R&D Technician to collaborate on product innovation in the sweets sector. This role supports from concept to shelf, including managing trials and sensory testing. The ideal candidate will have a passion for food, strong communication skills, and the ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment. Excellent career opportunities and competitive salary (£25,000-£28,000) are offered, along with benefits like a matching pension scheme and staff discounts.

Benefits

Matched pension scheme up to 10%

Death in service

Cycle to work scheme

Retailer discount platform

Staff discount

Qualifications

• Experience in food manufacturing, ideally within new product development or R&D environment.
• Passion for food and genuine interest in food-related innovation.
• Strong attention to detail with excellent organisational skills.

Responsibilities

• Prepare and run factory trials, managing key documentation.
• Lead sensory panels and ensure R&D team has necessary tools.
• Oversee shelf-life and sensory testing.

Skills

Food manufacturing experience

Strong communication skills

Proficiency in Excel, Word, PowerPoint

Attention to detail

Adaptability in a dynamic environment

Team player

Job description

Company Description

At Valeo Foods UK, we're the creative force behind an array of beloved brands spanning indulgence, innovation, and tradition. From the iconic crunch of Kettle Crisps to the pure sweetness of Rowse Honey, and the rich heritage of Matthew Walker puddings, our portfolio reflects our commitment to quality and diversity.

But that's not all – our family of brands extends further, encompassing an exciting array of products and experiences. Whether it's the Wild West flavours of New World Foods, the nostalgic joy of Barratt sweets, or the timeless appeal of Metcalfe Popcorn, each brand carries its own unique story, flavour, and charm. Join us on a journey where passion meets flavour, crafting experiences that bring people together and delight taste buds.

Job Description

R&D (Research and Development) Technician

Location: York (with occasional travel to other Valeo sites)

Working hours: Monday to Friday, 9-5

Salary: £25,000 to £28,000 depending on skills and experience

Are you curious, hands-on, and passionate about food? We’re looking for someone to step into a key role as R&D Technician in our sweets Innovation team, based at our York site.

This role is all about variety, collaboration, and supporting great ideas from concept to shelf. You'll work closely with our Senior R&D Technologist, playing an important part in everything from organising factory trials and managing ingredients, to running our sensory lab and helping us test and validate new product launches. It’s a role that touches many parts of the business—including Process, Operations, Technical, Procurement, and Marketing—and gives you a unique view of how our products come to life.

You’ll be preparing and running factory trials, managing key documentation, leading sensory panels, and helping to ensure our R&D team is equipped with the right tools, materials, and insights. This isn’t just about support—it’s about ownership, too. You’ll take the lead on organising lab activities, overseeing shelf‑life and sensory testing, and even deputising for the Senior Technologist when needed.

We’re looking for someone who’s organised, proactive, and confident in a fast‑moving environment. A background in food or confectionery manufacturing is a big plus, and you’ll need to be comfortable juggling multiple priorities—whether that’s helping prep for a product launch, managing store checks, or leading a customer visit.

Qualifications

• Experience in food manufacturing, ideally within new product development or R&D environment (desired but not essential).
• Familiarity with food process technologies and their application (desired but not essential).
• Strong communication skills — written, verbal, and presentation.
• Ability to interact successfully across all levels of the business.
• Proficiency in key IT applications including Excel, Word, and PowerPoint.
• Full, clean driving licence.
• Passion for food and a genuine interest in food‑related innovation.
• Strong attention to detail with excellent organisational skills.
• Flexible, forward‑thinking, and able to adapt in a fast‑paced, dynamic environment.
• Positive, willing attitude with a desire to learn and develop, demonstrating a “Personal Best” mindset.
• Good team player with adaptability to operate at all levels of the organisation.
• Numerate and commercially aware.
• Ability to embrace change and contribute to continuous improvement.

What we offer you in return

• Salary of £25,000‑28,000 depending on skills and experience.
• Monday to Friday 9-5.
• Excellent career opportunities.
• Matched pension scheme up to 10%.
• Death in service.
• Cycle to work scheme.
• Retailer discount platform.
• Staff discount.
• And plenty more!

If you're ready to make your mark in the snack world, apply now! We're excited to meet you and welcome you to the Valeo Foods UK family. Come taste success with us at Valeo Foods UK!