Join the Magic

Our Mission

At Puratos, we create innovative food solutions for the health and well-being of people everywhere. As the global leader in bakery, patisserie and chocolate ingredients, we help our customers to be successful with their business, by turning technologies and experiences from food cultures around the world into new opportunities.

We are more than 11,000 employees in 87 countries and a consolidated turnover of 3.4 billion euros. Our passion for innovation, a pioneering spirit and the unique Puratos culture drive our solid growth and vision for the future. This, along with our commitment to our local communities, is what makes working at Puratos so magical.

To strengthen our team in Puratos Fourayes, the UK’s number one processor and grower of fruit, to cover a period of maternity leave, we are looking for a:

R&D Technician – 12-month Fixed Term Contract

Sittingbourne UK

Your Mission

This role is due to commence in Summer 2026. Reporting to the R&D Manager, the successful candidate will be responsible for supporting the development of new products and the daily activities of the R&D laboratory.  This role is perfect for someone with or undertaking a degree in food science, who enjoys hands-on work, problem solving, and being at the heart of a fast-moving food manufacturing environment.

What you will do

Using your passion for quality and collaboration, you will:

• Collaborate with the R&D Technologist in developing new products.
• Prepare and despatch kitchen and production samples for customers.
• Assist in the manufacturing of products in the pilot plant.
• Complete all required documentation accurately.
• Analyse samples and record all technical data.
• Clean and maintain the new product development area and R&D kitchen.
• Ensure stock ingredients are replenished following stock rotation and ordering ingredients from suppliers.
• Support the R&D Manager and team as required.

What we expect from you

The ideal candidate would have:

• A degree in Food Science, Food Technology or related studies (or working towards).
• A passion for R&D and new product development.
• Level 2/3 HACCP & Food Hygiene.
• Confidence with strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft programs (Outlook, Word, Excel, Teams).
• High attention to detail with good planning, organisation and record-keeping skills.
• Dynamic, hands-on and proactive approach.
• Ability to stay calm and professional under pressure.

Desired Behaviours:

• Commitment - To the challenging and fast-paced environment.
• Curiosity – Constantly searching for new information and novel ways to use established wisdom.
• Collaboration – Sharing knowledge and experience freely to enrich others.
• Mindful disruption – Not held back by convention.
• Resilience – Trying, learning and trying again, whether we succeed or fail.
• Rigour & discipline – Use method and process to shape and answer questions.

Due to our remote location without public transport to the site, candidates will need their own transportation.

What you can expect from Puratos

• £27 – 30k per annum, dependant on qualifications and experience.
• 5% bonus scheme.
• Core hours will be 40 hours per week between 08:30 – 17:00.
• 25 days annual leave plus Bank Holidays.
• Opportunities for career growth and development.
• Access to 1000s of courses on LinkedIn learning.
• Comprehensive training and support, with 5 training days planned for every worker in 2026.
• Employee benefits platform.
• Cycle to work scheme.
• A positive and inclusive work environment.

We are a warm family company with a historical growth track record and a clear long-term vision for the future. We promote a caring, trustful and respectful work environment by putting people first.

We at Puratos cultivate an inclusive global workplace that fully embraces diversity and equal

opportunities for all. We strive to reflect the richness of our customers, communities and society, accelerating our ability to innovate and deliver on our commitments.

If you'd like to know a bit more about what we do at Puratos Fourayes follow this link:  https://www.puratos.co.uk/en/about-puratos/puratos-fourayes

Please note that we are unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position.