Food Technologist

Role overview

An established Irish food retailer is looking to hire a Food Technologist for its own-brand team in Cork. The role sits within a fast-paced, collaborative environment focused on developing food and non-food ranges for major retail labels, with strong emphasis on innovation, regulatory compliance, quality, and sustainability. This position is based in Cork and follows a hybrid working arrangement.

Package

• Competitive salary, dependent on experience
• Bonus opportunity
• Pension scheme
• Agile hybrid working model

Key responsibilities

• Partner with suppliers to make sure own-brand products meet agreed specifications and quality expectations for both product and packaging.
• Ensure products consistently perform well for consumers while meeting technical and quality requirements.
• Maintain compliance with relevant legislation and internal standards at every stage of product development.
• Update and manage online specification platforms, including systems such as Zoom, so products are fully approved before launch.
• Use the stage-gate process to support a structured and efficient development workflow.
• Carry out market benchmarking on a regular basis to spot opportunities to improve products or processes.
• Work with suppliers and product developers to introduce packaging solutions that align with sustainability and environmental goals.
• Collaborate with design teams to review, amend, and approve packaging artwork and on-pack information.
• Coordinate with sourcing teams to approve supplier bases for both new and existing products.
• Keep in regular contact with the Quality team regarding supplier audits and any technical issues that arise.
• Develop strong working relationships with suppliers, customers, and internal cross-functional stakeholders.
• Balance business priorities while helping deliver high-quality products at the lowest viable cost.

Requirements

• A third-level qualification in Food Technology, Food Science, Food Business, or a closely related discipline.
• At least 5 years of experience in FMCG or food manufacturing in a relevant development, quality, or technical role.
• Hands-on experience preparing retailer specifications through computer-based systems.
• Strong understanding of legal labelling rules and label approval processes.
• Working knowledge of quality frameworks such as BRC, HACCP, and allergen control.
• Well-developed project management, organisation, analytical thinking, and communication skills.
• Ability to work effectively both on your own and within a cross-functional team.
• Excellent attention to detail and a genuine interest in food and market trends.

Additional information

Recruitment for this position is being managed in complete confidence. Only candidates whose experience closely matches the role will be contacted. Any references to application handling or external job sites have been omitted.