R&D Product Development Intern (12 - Month Contract) at Mars

Job Overview

​ It is the responsibility of the jobholder to Support the Innovation team with activities within the Innovation, Renovation and Raw Material Risk assessments and Specification work streams. This includes translating product development recipes into prototypes and sensory panel support. The job holder is required to support Quality & Food Safety work streams pertaining to the R&D Kitchen as well as administrative support on managing and maintaining Raw material specifications and risk assessments. The job holder works closely with site Product Development Technologist, Raw materials Buyer and Raw material Technologist.

What are we looking for?

• Science based degree (i.e. Food Technology, Consumer Science, Food Science or Related Science Degree)
• Minimum of 1-year relevant industry experience is preferred.
• Understanding of food sciences, consumer science, packaging, Food Law, Food processing and production knowledge is preferred.
• Ideally a good knowledge of HACCP, Food/Raw material Microbiology, Chemical (relating to food safety) and Physical Hazards.
• A passion for cooking and exploring is essential.
• Computer literacy is essential.
• Demonstrated understanding of key scientific principles associated with food & raw materials .
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and work effectively within multiple teams, in a fast-paced environment is essential.
• Effective communication and stakeholder management skills.

What will be your key responsibilities?

• Supporting Innovation or Renovation projects by playing an active role in execution of product development work and exploring options to make meaningful improvements to Mars products.
• Supporting the Innovation team in preparation and execution of taste panels/sensory evaluations as well as data analysis of sensory results.  This includes weighing recipes and cooking preparation work.
• Conduct Competitor Product Reviews
• Participate in setting up and evaluating shelf life studies.
• Following good housekeeping and hygiene practices in the R&D Kitchen
• Adhering to all Mars Safety Standards and participating in prevention through Near Miss Reporting.
• Supporting the Raw Material Technologist with workstreams enabling efficient managing and maintaining Material Risk Assessments and Specification.
• Research topics required for Innovation Projects.
• Connect and collaborate with Global Innovation/Renovation Food network to leverage/share learnings and best practice alignment when required.
• Participate in/drive continuous improvement and proactively add value to the current processes.