Product Evaluation Assistant

Job Description Product Evaluation Assistant We are recruiting for a Product Evaluation Assistant to join a highly successful fresh produce business based in Bearsted, Maidstone would consider a graduate in Micro Biology, Food Science, Food technology or Biological Sciences , Agriculture or Horticulture disciplineThis is an exciting opportunity for someone with an interest in fresh produce, product quality, data and emerging technology to support the development of increasingly data-driven supply chains.

Working closely with the Technical Management team, growers, breeders, suppliers and external consumer panel partners, you will coordinate product evaluation activity, capture and analyse product performance data and support projects designed to improve the quality and consistency of fresh produce.

The Role Coordinate the day-to-day product evaluation processWork with growers, breeders and internal teams to collate samples of new and existing varieties for consumer testingOrganise the transportation of samples to Consumer Panel partnersMeasure and record product characteristics including size, weight, firmness, colour, Brix and Brix/acid ratiosPlay a key role in a new blueberry data collection projectMeasure and record shelf-life performanceUpload and maintain accurate information within the Product Evaluation databaseAttend consumer panels where required to ensure testing is completed objectively and in line with agreed proceduresConduct packaging and shelf-life trialsSupport the implementation and ongoing development of Business ObjectsVisit suppliers and breeders to review new varieties and provide feedback on product performanceSupport the expansion of Product Evaluation activity into additional fresh produce categoriesCollaborate with suppliers and research partners on product evaluation projectsSupport internal taste panels and technical data collectionHelp develop and maintain databases covering varieties, breeders and licencesManage elements of the supplier portal, including quality intake reports, users and supplier accessLiaise with IT support to troubleshoot system and access issuesAbout You We are looking for someone who is naturally analytical, highly organised and genuinely interested in product quality and data.

You will ideally have: Experience or a strong interest in fresh produce, food, horticulture, technical or product quality would consider a graduateStrong numerical and data-handling skillsExcellent attention to detail and accuracyConfidence working with databases, systems and Excel/data reporting toolsAn interest in AI and emerging technologies and how these can improve product consistencyStrong organisational skills with the ability to coordinate samples, testing and multiple projectsGood communication skills and confidence dealing with growers, breeders, suppliers and internal stakeholdersA practical, hands-on approach and willingness to work directly with fresh produceThe ability to work independently while contributing effectively to a wider Technical teamWhat's on Offer Permanent, full-time positionOpportunity to work closely with growers, breeders and leading fresh produce specialistsExposure to product development, consumer research, technical systems and data-led supply chainsOpportunity to become involved in innovative projects using data, AI and emerging technology within fresh produceThis would particularly suit someone looking to develop their career within fresh produce technical, product evaluation or product development and who enjoys combining hands-on product work with data and technology. In the first instance send across your CVTPBN1_UKTJ

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