Development Technician

Job Description

Development Technician

Billingham / Tanfield (flexibility required between both sites)

On-site

Join our snack-loving team! We're looking for a Development Technician to join our team at KP Snacks. Fancy being part of a group where your ideas matter and your growth is celebrated? Keep reading – this might just be your next adventure!

Our R&D team is the creative engine behind KP Snacks, innovating to bring delicious, exciting, and high-quality snacks to our consumers. From developing new flavours and formats to improving existing recipes, this team uses consumer insights, market trends, and technical expertise to ensure our products continually surprise and delight snack lovers everywhere. Through innovation, collaboration, and a passion for great taste, the R&D team plays a crucial role in shaping the future of snacking.

The Development Technician supports projects led by the Development Technologist or Manager by coordinating all development kitchen activities. This includes working with suppliers and internal departments to ensure customer requirements are met and that products are ready for successful factory production.

What’s in it for you?

We believe in giving back and making sure you're happy and thriving. Here's a taste of what we offer:

• Comprehensive Healthcare Support – Access to a Medicash Health Cash Plan, including a Digital GP service, Best Doctors (Second Medical Opinion Service), and specialist Cancer Care for peace of mind when you need it most.
• KP Pension Plan - contribution matching up to 7% of your salary
• 25 days holiday + holiday buy scheme
• KP4ME - online benefits, discounts, prizes, competitions and information platform with access to mental, physical and financial wellbeing information and tools
  
  

What will you be doing?

• Coordinate and support bench and factory trials, ensuring seamless execution from planning through to first production runs.
• Tackle the exciting challenge of managing sample logistics, from kitchen prep to timely delivery, keeping everything traceable and presentation-ready.
• Work closely with cross-functional teams – including Operations, Sales, Marketing, and R&D – to align projects and maintain clear communication.
• Drive real impact by ensuring trial activities run smoothly, supporting the launch of high-quality products that meet commercial and technical standards.
• Gain valuable hands-on experience with systems like JDE and Optiva, while deepening your knowledge of manufacturing processes and product development.
  
  

Who are we?

Glad you asked! We're KP Snacks, proud to be part of the Intersnack family. Picture this: over 15,000 of us, spread across more than 30 countries, all working together to create the snacks you love. From Hula Hoops to McCoy's, we're the team behind your favourite munchies.

Here in the UK, we're about 2,400 strong, spread across seven factories and our Slough HQ. But don't let our size fool you – we're as close-knit as they come. We believe in speaking our minds, celebrating our differences, and pushing boundaries together.

Diversity isn't just a buzzword for us. We're on a mission to create a workplace where everyone belongs. So, even if you don't tick every box, we want to hear from you! Your unique perspective could be just what we need. Also, if there's anything we can do to make this process easier for you, just give us a shout.

Job requirements

We’d love to hear from you if you can demonstrate the following knowledge, skills and experience:

• Bring your passion for food science, technology, or STEM – your academic background will help you thrive in this dynamic environment.
• Use your strong communication, organisational, and IT skills to contribute meaningfully to team projects and cross-functional collaboration.
• If you’ve had hands-on experience in R&D labs, FMCG, or food production environments, your transferable skills will be highly valued.
• Experience with seasonings, ambient products, or pilot trials is a bonus – but don’t worry if you haven’t ticked every box; we still encourage you to apply.
• If you’re proactive, adaptable, and committed to working collaboratively while championing food safety, continuous improvement, and positive relationships – you’ll fit right in with KP’s values and behaviours.
  
  

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