NPD Technologist

Role overview

This position supports the creation and launch of new food products, taking projects from the initial idea stage through to market release. The focus is on delivering against quality standards, budget targets, and timelines for both branded products and own-label ranges.

The role is part of the European Seafood and Pork divisions and works across multiple functions to move new product development work from concept to launch. You will partner with stakeholders across the business to make sure products satisfy both customer needs and site expectations, while keeping projects on track through the stage-gate process.

What you will do

• Oversee the daily progress of NPD projects and deal with issues early so deadlines stay on track.
• Create, track, and improve the NPD stage-gate workflow.
• Plan and communicate weekly and monthly customer briefs so milestones are delivered on time.
• Work with internal stakeholders to balance customer expectations with cost and quality requirements.
• Make sure products are fully costed and reviewed with Finance before moving into the sample phase.
• Help improve product success rates and the number of customer listings.
• Support smooth product launches by keeping communication clear between departments.
• Check product samples before they are sent out to reduce the risk of customer rejections.
• Work with the NPD Manager to develop a pipeline of new ideas for existing and prospective customers.
• Represent the company at trade shows and customer presentations when needed.
• Partner with the Sales team to help win new business and make best use of factory capacity.
• Maintain strong working relationships with colleagues inside the business and with external partners.

What we are looking for

The right candidate should be well organised, able to manage projects effectively, and comfortable solving problems quickly. Strong communication skills are important, as this role involves regular collaboration across teams. A proactive mindset, attention to detail, and a genuine enthusiasm for food and innovation are essential.

A bachelor’s degree in Food Science, Food Technology, or a similar subject is preferred. You should also have 1 to 2 years of experience in a comparable food industry role. Helpful background includes knowledge of food processing methods, ingredients, and formulation principles, along with experience in costing, product specifications, and artwork approval.

Benefits

• Competitive salary
• Company pension scheme
• Life assurance
• Access to an online benefits hub
• Career development opportunities
• Supportive and collaborative workplace culture

Working pattern

This is a full-time position based in Fethard, County Tipperary, Ireland. The schedule is Monday to Friday.

About the company

The employer is a major food business with more than 13,000 employees across 40 sites in Canada and Europe. The organisation focuses on quality meat and seafood products for consumers worldwide and places strong emphasis on innovation, sustainability, and customer satisfaction.

The business works with responsibly sourced products drawn from more than 50 protein sources across five continents. Its long-term ambition is to become the most successful food company in the world.

Equal opportunities

The company is an equal opportunities employer and is committed to building a diverse, inclusive workplace where people are treated with respect. Applications are welcomed from candidates of all backgrounds and experiences, regardless of age, disability, gender identity, marital or civil partnership status, pregnancy or maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, or sexual orientation.

Additional information

AutoReqId: 5479BR

AdRef: INDB2

Country code: IE

Hours of work: Full-time

Company: Sofina Foods

Location: Fethard, County Tipperary