RD&A Technologist
Kerry Group
Job Description
About Kerry
Kerry is the world's leading taste and nutrition company for the food, beverage and pharmaceutical industries. Every day we partner with customers to create healthier, tastier and more sustainable products that are consumed by billions of people across the world. Our vision is to be our customers' most valued partner, creating a world of sustainable nutrition.
A career with Kerry offers you an opportunity to shape the future of food while providing you opportunities to explore and grow in a truly global environment.About the role
We are looking for a Senior RD&A Technologist to join our Meat Coatings team, developing innovative coating systems for meat and meat-alternative applications.This is a hands-on, customer-facing role combining formulation expertise, pilot plant work, and direct collaboration with commercial teams to deliver market-leading solutions.Key responsibilities
Develop, test, and optimise coating systems including batters, breadings, adhesion systems, glazes, and functional coatingsConduct benchtop experiments, sensory evaluations, and technical validationsDeliver solutions that meet performance, quality, and cost requirementsExecute coating trials using pilot-scale equipment (tumbler, applicator, fryer, oven, freezer, etc.)Simulate industrial processes to ensure scalability and robustnessGenerate data to support product performance and process optimizationSupport customer projects through sample preparation, technical demos, and plant trialsTroubleshoot coating and processing challenges, providing practical recommendationsPrepare technical presentations and contribute to customer meetings alongside commercial teamsManage multiple projects simultaneously, ensuring delivery against timelines and business prioritiesMaintain clear documentation and communication of project progressKey Attributes
Strong attention to detail and technical curiosityAbility to work both independently and as part of cross-functional teamsStrong organisational and project management skillsCustomer-focused mindset with a commercial perspectiveComfortable working in a fast-paced, collaborative environmentWillingness to travel within the UK & IrelandQualifications and skills
Degree in Food Science, Food Technology, Culinary Science, or a related disciplineExperience working with meat products and/or coating systemsHands-on laboratory and pilot plant experienceStrong understanding of food processing, coating functionality, and frying/baking systemsExcellent problem-solving, communication, and data interpretation skillsExperience supporting customer projects or production trialsKnowledge of clean-label coatings, gluten-free systems, or plant-based technologies