Npd jobs in Leeds

About us

Cranswick Gourmet Bacon is committed to taste, dedicated to quality. We are passionate about producing only the best quality food efficiently and sustainably in a well invested facility in Sherburn working with the best people in Sherburn in Elmet.

Due to our continued success here at Cranswick, an exciting opportunity has become available for a Product Development Technologist.

About the Role

As an NPD Graduate Apprentice, you will support the development of new and existing products from concept through to launch. Working closely with NPD, Production, Technical, Commercial, and Operations teams, you will gain exposure to every stage of the product development process.

You will learn how products are developed, trialled, costed, presented to customers, and successfully launched into major UK retailers.

Hours:

Monday - Friday 8:00am/8:30am – 4:30pm/5:00pm

Key Responsibilities

• Support the development and launch of new products.
• Assist with product benchmarking, taste panels, and customer submissions.
• Work with the NPD team to develop innovative product concepts.
• Support factory trials and product evaluations.
• Maintain project documentation and critical paths.
• Assist with customer-specific paperwork and presentations.
• Attend project meetings and communicate project progress.
• Build an understanding of food manufacturing processes and factory operations.
• Work alongside chefs, technologists, and operational teams to bring products to market.
• Develop knowledge of retailer requirements, food trends, and consumer insights.

What We're Looking For

We are looking for someone who:

• Has a genuine passion for food and innovation.
• Holds, or is working towards, a degree in Food Science, Food Technology, Nutrition, Culinary Arts, or a related discipline.
• Has completed an industrial placement within the food industry (desirable).
• Has strong organisational and communication skills.
• Is confident working with Microsoft Office applications.
• Has excellent attention to detail.
• Is eager to learn and develop within a fast-paced food manufacturing environment.
• Can work effectively both independently and as part of a team.
• Has a positive attitude and a willingness to get involved in both office and factory-based activities.

What You'll Gain

• Hands-on experience within a leading UK food manufacturer.
• Exposure to major retail customer accounts.
• Structured learning and development opportunities.
• Experience working with experienced NPD professionals and chefs.
• Career progression opportunities within Cranswick.
• A supportive and collaborative working environment.

Why Join Cranswick Gourmet Bacon?

• Work for one of the UK's leading food manufacturers.
• Be part of exciting product launches and innovation projects.
• Learn from experienced industry professionals.
• Employee benefits package.
• Free on-site parking.
• Employee discounts and wellbeing support.
• Excellent opportunities for long-term career development.

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Benefits:

• Company events
• Company pension
• Discounted or free food
• Employee discount
• Health & wellbeing programme
• Life insurance
• On-site parking
• Referral programme

Ability to commute/relocate:

• Leeds LS25 6PL: reliably commute or plan to relocate before starting work (preferred)

Education:

• GCSE or equivalent (preferred)

Experience:

• npd: 1 year (preferred)

Work authorisation:

• United Kingdom (preferred)