Careers in Technical
Technical; Food Science and Quality Assurance
Food Science and Quality Assurance Technical career opportunities exist in both Retail and Manufacturing companies. Technologists generally work in product development, applying their knowledge to product matters such as selection, preservation, processing, packaging, storing and distribution. Career opportunities for technologists have grown steadily, especially within the food sector where food science knowledge is put to good use in an increasingly sophisticated market.
Typically, people in this career will be graduates with Food Science, Food science, Nutrition, Food Technology, Biotechnology or Biosciences degrees. Opportunities for technologists have grown steadily, especially within the food sector where food science knowledge is put to good use in an increasingly sophisticated market.
Some examples of technical careers
Quality Assurance - £12,000 to £18,000 Attention to detail is the name of the game. Typically you will be involved in the product development process, ensuring that product standards are defined and achievable. Ingredients will need to be audited, as will packaging and packaging suppliers.
Product Technologist (Food retailing) - £22,000 to £34,000 Within a retail business this role interacts with the Buyers and their new product development strategy. You will work on a specific category and liaise with suppliers regarding existing and new products / ranges. Developing products is a complex process working within fixed financial constraints.
Technical Manager (Food and drink) - £26,000 to £45,000 By the time you reach middle management this role will often be extremely innovative. You will be the link between producers and retail or wholesale companies. Detail and communication skills are important as there is plenty of liaison between buyers and marketers regarding future product plans. The job encompasses everything from lab work to the final packaging concepts.
Garment Technology - £14,000 to £45,000 Liaising between buyers, suppliers and manufacturers, you are responsible for ensuring the quality standards set by individual retailers are met. You can specialise in menswear, ladieswear or childrenswear as well as jerseywear, Knitwear, wovens and Tailoring. You receive garment samples prior to production and check them for fit, sizing, durability, safety and wash testing. This position can involve overseas travel as you are often required to visit factories based in Europe and the Far East. Salaries increase steadily with experience and responsibility.
