Specification Technologist (Fixed Term Contract)

At Valeo Foods UK, we're the creative force behind an array of beloved brands spanning indulgence, innovation, and tradition. From the iconic crunch of Kettle Crisps to the pure sweetness of Rowse Honey, and the rich heritage of Matthew Walker puddings, our portfolio reflects our commitment to quality and diversity.

But that's not all – our family of brands extends further, encompassing an exciting array of products and experiences. Whether it's the Wild West flavours of New World Foods, the nostalgic joy of Barratt sweets, or the timeless appeal of Metcalfe Popcorn, each brand carries its own unique story, flavour, and charm. Join us on a journey where passion meets flavour, crafting experiences that bring people together and delight taste buds.

Now we’re looking for a Specifications Technologist to join us on a 12-month fixed-term contract at our Matthew Walker site in Heanor – the home of the nation’s most iconic Christmas puddings.

In this detail-driven role, you’ll help ensure the safety, legality, and accuracy of our product and packaging specifications – from raw materials to finished goods. Whether it’s onboarding new ingredients, managing retailer spec portals, or updating packing specs following recipe changes, you’ll play a vital part in maintaining trust and quality across the supply chain.

What you'll be doing:

• Creating, maintaining and reviewing accurate specifications for all products, ingredients, packaging and co-packed items

• Ensuring specifications comply with customer and legal requirements

• Supporting technical reviews of raw material and packaging specs to ensure safety, accuracy and compliance

• Managing updates to specifications following any recipe or packaging changes, ensuring accurate version control

• Maintaining spec trackers and online portal systems

• Collaborating with QA, NPD, Process Development and wider Technical teams to sign off specs and approve pack copy

• Supporting audits and ensuring obsolete documents are properly archived

What we're looking for:

• Experience in a food manufacturing or technical environment

• Understanding of specification systems, food labelling, allergens, and legal requirements

• High attention to detail and confidence in managing technical documents

• Familiarity with customer specification portals (retailers and/or manufacturers)

• Strong organisation, communication and cross-functional collaboration skills

This is a fantastic opportunity to join a supportive, close-knit technical team in a brand with true festive heritage. Whether you’re already in specifications or have a background in food safety, quality or NPD and want to move into a documentation-focused role, we’d love to hear from you.

• Competitive Salary 
• Matched pension scheme 
• Death in service
• Cycle to work scheme
• Canteen accessibility
• Retailer discount platform
• Staff discount