Food Technologist
4 days ago
About us
Picasso Foods is a leading Australian manufacturer of fresh pizza, ready-made meals and value-add bakery products, supplying major supermarket retailers nationally. We combine chef-led innovation with high-care manufacturing, rigorous quality systems and a commitment to continuous improvement.
The opportunity
We're looking for a hands-on Food Technologist to own concept-to-launch development and technical compliance across pizzas, meals and prepared sides. You'll run factory trials, lock specifications, and ensure products meet safety, quality, cost and sustainability objectives.
Key responsibilities
- Lead NPD/EPD from brief through trials, shelf-life, sensory and launch (stage-gate).
- Develop and maintain product specs, BOMs and process documentation (work instructions, CCP validation, SOPs).
- Ensure compliance with the Australia New Zealand Food Standards Code (labelling, allergens/VITAL, nutritional panels, claims).
- Plan and execute shelf-life studies, micro testing coordination and packaging validation.
- Prepare submissions, GS1 NPC data, packaging artworks and change control.
- Drive value engineering (materials/packaging), ingredient approvals and supplier technical onboarding.
- Support customer QA audits (e.g., Woolworths/Coles programs), HACCP/BRC-style systems and internal GMP initiatives.
- Contribute to sustainability targets (APCO guidelines, recyclability, right-sizing; collaborate on solar/energy initiatives where relevant).
What you'll bring
- Degree in Food Science/Technology (or similar).
- 2–5+ years in chilled/frozen manufacturing (pizza, meals, bakery or equivalent high-care preferred).
- Strong grasp of FSANZ, HACCP, allergen management and label compliance.
- Proven factory trial capability: scaling kitchen samples to line runs with solid data discipline.
- Excellent spec systems literacy (e.g., SpecPage/Genesis/GS1 NPC—or quick to learn), strong Excel skills.
- Effective communicator who can partner with Operations, QA, Procurement and Customers.
- Curious, data-driven and calm under pressure.
What we offer
- Impact and ownership - see your products on shelf nationally.
- Supportive, chef-led culture that values professionalism, accountability and continuous improvement.
How to apply
Click Apply with your CV and a brief note on a product you've taken from concept to launch, including one technical challenge you solved.
Right to work: Applicants must have full working rights in Australia.
Picasso Foods is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes applicants from all backgrounds.
Job Types: Full-time, Permanent
Pay: $75,000.00 – $85,000.00 per year
Work Location: In person
