Science jobs in Lancashire

Based at our contemporary head office and distribution centre on the outskirts of Preston, James Hall & Co. Ltd. have been established for over 150 years proudly serving communities across the north of England as supplier and distributor to over 450 SPAR stores.

We are proud to be one of the biggest employers in Lancashire with over 4000 colleagues who represent our core values of passion, enterprise, and family every single day.

Contract Type: Permanent
Hours of work: 38 hours per week
Location: Office based - James Hall & Co. Ltd, SPAR Distribution Centre, Bowland View, Preston, PR2 5QT

About the Role
We have a fantastic opportunity for an NPD Specifications Writer to join our NPD team at James Hall & Co. Ltd in Preston.

Working as part of a busy NPD department, you will support the delivery of new and existing product development by creating clear and detailed documentation, ensuring compliance with food safety legislation and accurate labelling standards.

Here’s What You Can Expect to be Doing
As an NPD Specifications Writer, you will work closely with the NPD team, suppliers and wider stakeholders to ensure product information is accurate, compliant and effectively managed throughout the development process.

Your responsibilities will include:

• Supporting the NPD Manager and wider team with the creation and management of new product documentation in line with SPAR and James Hall development policies.
• Liaising with NPD team members and suppliers regarding new raw materials and packaging specifications.
• Screening supplier specifications against legislation and internal policies to support safe product launches.
• Collaborating with relevant stakeholders to obtain information and resolve technical queries.
• Creating and maintaining internal pack copies, including accurate ingredient declarations, allergen information and nutritional data.
• Completing HFSS calculations, checking product claims and collating finished product packaging details.
• Managing data accurately across internal and external systems.

A Few Things About You
We are looking for someone who is organised, detail-focused and able to work confidently both independently and as part of a busy team.

You will ideally have:

• A minimum of 2 years' experience working within NPD, or experience working alongside Technical departments. Previous experience as a Specifications Writer would be an advantage.
• A degree or qualification in Food, Food Science or Nutrition is preferable.
• A good understanding of food legislation and legal compliance.
• Excellent time-management and organisational skills, with the ability to document information clearly and concisely.
• The ability to use your own initiative while contributing effectively as part of a team.
• Excellent attention to detail, with strong grammar and spelling skills.
• Clear communication skills and the confidence to liaise with colleagues at all levels of the organisation.
• Good working knowledge of Microsoft Word, Excel and PowerPoint.

Why Join Us?

James Hall & Co. Ltd. have one simple vison: to still be in business in another 50 years!

To make this vision possible we need the best talent to join us on our journey. We are a family company and believe that if we look after our people, they will look after us.

Loyalty Pay - Celebrate your work anniversary with a little extra! You’ll earn an additional £0.25 per hour over the financial year, with the hourly amount increasing the longer you stay with us. Your total is paid as a lump sum in the month following your anniversary.
20% Staff Discount - Enjoy 20% off your shopping in our company-owned SPAR stores — perfect for those everyday essentials and treats.
Annual Leave - Start with a generous 30 days of annual leave, inclusive of Bank Holidays. Entitlement increases with length of service, rewarding your continued commitment.
Health & Wellbeing - All colleagues can access our on-site registered nurses and physiotherapist at Bowland View for confidential support. We also run a year-round programme of health and wellbeing initiatives covering physical, mental, and lifestyle topics.
Company Sick Pay - We offer a Company Sick Pay scheme to support you during periods of ill health, providing peace of mind when you need it most.
Pension & Life Insurance - You will be enrolled into the Nest pension scheme. After two years of service, you will also receive life insurance cover, offering added security for you and your loved ones.
Free Onsite Parking - All colleagues have access to free onsite parking, making your commute more convenient and cost-effective.
Learning & Development - Whether you're looking to build your career or gain new skills, our in-house team will support you with fully funded, accredited training and industry-recognised qualifications.
Grocery Aid Support - Access free, confidential, 24/7 support through Grocery Aid — offering expert advice and help on everything from mental health and financial concerns to legal issues and family support.

For more information about us and the benefits we offer, please head over to our careers page.

Please note if we receive a high number of applicants, we may close the advert early. We advise interested candidates to submit their applications promptly to avoid disappointment.

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