Research & Development Higher Apprenticeship

Research & Development Higher Apprenticeship

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.

Interviews w/c 4th August 2025 for programme start in September 2025

How to apply

To apply for this role and to find out more, please click on the apply button.

Applications may close before the deadline, so please apply early to avoid disappointment.