Who we are 

Leatherhead Food Research provides expertise and support to the global food and beverage sector.  We provide practical solutions that cover all stages of a product’s life cycle from consumer insight and ingredient innovation to food safety consultancy and global regulatory advice. It is an exciting time for the business as we seek to grow within the UK and internationally.  We have made substantial investment in new laboratories, fully equipped kitchens, and a research centre.  Leatherhead’s cooking instructions service is led by an expert, dedicated team to help bring products to the market by ensuring cooking instructions are accurate & safe, meet relevant guidelines and regulations and are comprehensible to consumers.  

The opportunity 

Due to growth within the team, we are seeking an enthusiastic and energetic individual to join our industry leading Cooking Instructions team part-time. This role is ideal for parents returning to work or those starting in the food industry. You’ll work under the Cooking Instructions Manager or Supervisor at our Great Burgh office.

A day in the life  

Your day begins with equipment checks, crucial for our UKAS accreditation. You’ll then work on various projects, conducting tests, and creating or validating cooking instructions. Post-cooking, you’ll assess product quality and sensory attributes. Each project concludes with a report and quality checks. Teamwork is key in our cooking instructions team, and the day wraps up with a comprehensive clean-up. Regular meetings, including team catch-ups and company-wide updates, are part of the routine.

Key responsibilities 

• Project Delivery: Conduct routine tests, record results, and deliver high-quality work within deadlines. Assist in efficient organisation of cooking instructions work and stay updated on relevant trends.
• Team Interaction: Provide excellent customer service, build effective relationships, showcase professional standards, and adapt to various tasks flexibly.
• Policy Adherence: Maintain client confidentiality, ensure personal and others’ safety at work, follow company rules, and adhere to project management practices.

Experience and qualifications required 

• Positive Attitude: A passion for cooking is a must.
• Team Player: You should be motivating and cooperative.
• Organisational Skills & Multitasking: Excellent organisational skills and the ability to multitask effectively is necessary.
• Communication Skills: Excellent written and verbal communication skills are needed.
• Analytical Skills: The ability to analyse and evaluate final results/quality with a high attention to detail is important.
• Food Preparation Skills: An ‘A’ level or equivalent in food preparation would be advantageous, but not essential.
• Industry Experience: Practical experience in the food or catering industry would be beneficial, but not a necessity.
• Computer Literacy: Proficiency in using a PC is required.

Career development 

We are committed to supporting employees and make a focused effort to offer bespoke training to allow each individual to thrive within their environment and realise personal potential.