Job Description

Apprentice Research & Development Dairy Technologist | Premier Foods, Lifton
Level 5 Dairy Technologist apprenticeship
1st Year Salary: 23,809 per annum
5 Weeks Annual Leave + Bank Holidays
Interviews w/c 4th August 2025 for programme start in September 2025
Are you passionate about food and science? Do you want to help shape the future of iconic British brands like Ambrosia? We're looking for an enthusiastic Apprentice Dairy Technologist to join our expert Research & Development team at our Lifton site based in Devon.
This is a unique opportunity to start or expand your career in food science, gaining hands-on experience and formal qualifications while contributing to the development of dairy products enjoyed across the UK.
What You'll Be Doing:
As an apprentice, you'll work towards completing the Level 5 Dairy Technologist programme through Reaseheath College (on block release), combining academic learning with real-world experience in a development unit located within the Ambrosia Creamery.
Throughout the apprenticeship, you'll build knowledge and hands-on skills in areas such as:
Using a range of science-based techniques to research and fully understand the functionality of new and existing dairy-based ingredients and processes
Participate in the implementation of opportunities to improve costs and quality of products and processes and other site initiatives
Work with suppliers to come up with innovative solutions
Support the wider development team and site team with knowledge of ingredient functionality and processes
Support during factory trials and product launches
Source, co-ordinate and maintain adequate supplies of raw materials, ingredients and key equipment as required.
Ensure appropriate storage of finished products and accessibility of samples for sensory research, marketing/approval meetings, and sales force.
Provide ingredient information and technical data for specifications, costings, labels as required.
Operate Pilot Plant equipment as and when required.
Ensure all samples for shelf-life evaluations are stored correctly, available for examination at key stages, and results are documented.
Follow Good Manufacturing Practice and all necessary food product safety guidelines to ensure high quality trial samples
You'll be supported by experienced professionals as you apply your learning to practical challenges, helping to ensure the safety and quality of our products.
What We're Looking For:
A minimum of 3 GCSEs (or equivalent) at grade 4/C or above, including Maths, Science, and English
A scientific mindset, an ability to think outside the box, and a curious outlook (and a love of food doesn't hurt!)
Great attention to detail and a strong desire to learn
Good communication skills and the ability to work well in a team
A positive attitude and willingness to take on new challenges
Aged 18 and above for travel reasons
What We Can Offer You:

• A competitive salary, increasing each year based on successful academic and practical progress

• Company pension scheme with life assurance

• 5 weeks' holiday + bank holidays

• Access to a range of employee benefits, including:

• Staff discount scheme

• Onsite subsidised canteen

• Company shop

• ShareSave scheme

• Cycle to Work scheme

• Employee assistance programme

• BOOST - our Apprentice Skills Development Network

The Next Step...
If you're ready to take a step into a career in food science and want to be part of a team that makes a real difference every day, click apply via our website and upload your CV.
A great British food company
Premier Foods is one of Britain's biggest listed food companies, employing over 4,000 colleagues at 13 manufacturing sites and offices up and down the country.
Many of our brands have been part of UK life for more than a century and you'll find them in 90% of British households.
At Premier foods we believe in inclusion, authenticity and individuality. We aim to ensure all existing and future colleagues are given equitable opportunities and are respected, valued and encouraged to bring their true authentic selves to work no matter who they are, what they look like, who they love or what they believe in. Our culture is one where everyone is welcome.