NPD Technician

GCB Cocoa UK is a Chocolate and Cocoa processor based in Suffolk who are currently seeking an enthusiastic and experienced NPD Technician to support the ongoing growth of our new chocolate production facility.

What we are looking for:

You will bring your knowledge of product development in the food industry to our 5 person NPD team, producing chocolate samples in our purpose-built pilot plant in response to customer requests, maintaining product development records and supporting the scale up of products from test kitchen to factory production.

Essential skills and experiences:

• 2+ years experience working in product development in the food industry.
• A passionate hands-on approach for producing chocolate to a specified recipe and standard.
• Excellent palate with a proficiency in identifying flavours, textures, and differences.
• Excellent communicator (written and verbal)
• Literate in English and a capable grasp of mathematical calculations.
• Willing to learn new systems and processes; working knowledge of Sharepoint.
• Strong skills in Microsoft 365 applications (Word, Outlook, Excel, Teams, Powerpoint)

Desirable skills and experiences:

• Previous chocolate manufacturing/handling and/or cocoa processing knowledge.
• Experience of industrial food businesses in the confectionery, bakery or dessert sectors.
• Experience working in a food manufacturing environment.
• Prior experience in a product development role, including scaling up to factory production.

In this role you will:

• Produce samples of Chocolate to a specified quality, in a purpose-built pilot plant.
• Convert liquid Chocolate into samples for customer evaluation.
• Manage the NPD online record system for all projects and materials (SharePoint)
• Maintain clear records for all samples despatched and feedback received.
• Work closely with commercial, technical, operational, and quality teams.
• Maintain the hygiene standard of the pilot plant and test kitchen.
• Prepare and participate in taste panels and communication of findings / actions.

Working Pattern:
08.00 - 17.00, Monday - Friday

We offer:

• Base Salary of £28,000 - 30,000 per annum, dependent on experience
• Salary Sacrifice Pension Scheme: 5% Employee pension contributions are matched by 5% Employer pension contribution.
• 23 days annual leave (plus bank holidays), rising to 25 days after 2 years’ service.
• Free on-site parking and hot drinks

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Pay: £28,000.00-£30,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Company pension
• Free parking
• On-site parking
• Referral programme

Ability to commute/relocate:

• Sudbury CO10 7QR: reliably commute or plan to relocate before starting work (required)

Work Location: In person