Job Title: NPD Scientist / Technologist
Location: Melton Mowbray
Salary: £27,000 - £32,500 per annum, depending on experience
Reports to: Technical Development Manager

ABOUT US:

Vetio UK is a contract manufacturer of health and wellbeing products for the pet and veterinary sectors. We pride ourselves on our ability to create palatable, effective, and scientifically formulated products that meet the needs of pets and their owners. As part of our continued growth, we are looking for an experienced NPD Scientist / Technologist to join our team and drive forward our new product development initiatives. The position is based at our offices in Melton Mowbray.

SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE & EXPERIENCE:

• Degree in Food Science, Animal Nutrition, or a related field (or equivalent industry experience).
• 2+ years’ experience in new product development within food, pet food, or animal feed industries.
• Strong problem-solving skills with the ability to work independently and make informed decisions.
• Hands-on experience with formulation, ingredient functionality and processing techniques.
• A proactive and organised approach to project management.
• Excellent communication skills to collaborate effectively across departments.
• Proficiency in MS Office and Google Suite (Excel, Word, Google Sheets).
• Knowledge of regulatory requirements related to pet food/feed production is advantageous.

ROLE OVERVIEW:

This is a hands-on role in our development team, responsible for formulating and trialling new products from concept through to production. Unlike a standard food technician role, this position requires an individual who can work independently, take initiative and make decisions to drive projects forward. The ideal candidate will have experience in food or feed product development and an ability to troubleshoot, refine formulations and contribute to process improvements.

KEY TASKS & RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Develop new soft chew formulations from concept to scale-up, ensuring feasibility in both palatability and manufacturing.
• Independently manage development projects, balancing multiple priorities and making data-driven decisions.
• Troubleshoot formulation and process challenges, proactively identifying and implementing solutions.
• Conduct ingredient research and supplier evaluation to improve existing and new formulations.
• Work closely with cross-functional teams, including design, procurement, sales, technical, quality and production, to ensure successful product development and launch.
• Conduct product testing and qualification, including sensory analysis, physicochemical tests, shelf-life testing, and nutritional assessments, keeping accurate records.
• Maintain accurate documentation of formulations, trials, and ingredient specifications, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards.
• Assist in coordinating and documenting product trials, both in-house and with external suppliers or manufacturers.
• Keep up to date with industry trends, new ingredients, and emerging technologies to support innovative product development.
• Support the team in resolving any technical issues or challenges that arise during the product development process.
• Contribute to process improvements and innovation within the NPD department.