Raw Materials Technologist, Raw Materials Technologist

Job Title: Raw Materials Technologist

Location: Grantham or Craigavon

Department: Technical / Quality Assurance

Reports To: QA Manager

Contract Type: Temporary 9-12months

Job Purpose

To provide skilled technical support by requesting, approving, and maintaining ingredient specifications and supplier certifications (including packaging information), ensuring all data is complete, accurate, and compliant with customer requirements, relevant legislation, and group policy.

Key Responsibilities

• Request, review, approve, and maintain specifications and certifications for all raw materials and packaging supplied to the business.
• Ensure all data is accurate, valid, and compliant with customer requirements, legislation, and internal policies.
• Evaluate and action specification amendments or updates, ensuring clear communication with stakeholders.
• Validate on-pack claims by obtaining and reviewing supporting documentation (e.g., vegan assessments, animal welfare certificates, RSPO, organic certifications).
• Complete risk assessments for all raw materials and packaging items in line with procedures.
• Maintain the Central Specifications System with up-to-date raw material data, approved specifications, and certifications; archive obsolete materials.
• Support suppliers in understanding raw material policies and customer requirements.
• Assist suppliers with the use of Smile and act as the main point of contact for raw material and packaging queries.
• Stay informed of current customer requirements and ensure compliance.
• Manage SAP codes for raw materials, including creation, extension, and status changes.
• Implement controls, monitoring, and verification processes for raw materials and packaging prior to final approval.
  
  

Essential Criteria

• Food-related qualification or relevant experience in a similar role.
• Proficient in Microsoft Excel and Word; comfortable using computer systems.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Excellent organisational and prioritisation abilities.
• High attention to detail and accuracy.
• Ability to meet strict deadlines.
• Self-motivated, proactive, and assertive.
  
  

Desirable Criteria

• Experience in writing product specifications or working in a regulatory/factory technical team.
• Working knowledge of food legislation and customer requirements.
• Familiarity with customer specification systems.
• Proven ability to build and maintain customer relationships.
• Interest in food ingredients, safety, and integrity