What does a Food Technologist Apprentice do?

A Food Technologist makes sure that every product you see on supermarket shelves is safe, high quality, and made to the right standards. The role involves checking that ingredients and processes meet strict regulations, supporting product development, and continuously improving food safety and quality. It’s a mix of science, problem-solving, and teamwork — ensuring great-tasting products that consumers can trust. 

Describe your job in 20-25 words

I help ensure our products are safe, consistent, and high quality by supporting production processes, analysing data, and working with teams to solve problems and improve performance. 

Give a description of a day in the life of a Food Technologist

My day usually starts in the office, checking emails and preparing for the morning production meeting. It’s a good chance to catch up with different teams, review any overnight issues, and plan the day’s priorities. Since I am currently working in process support, I spend a lot of time analysing data, reviewing paperwork, and helping to make sure production runs smoothly and efficiently. I’ll often be involved in problem-solving — from investigating process variations to supporting upcoming trials or changes. Although I’m office based, I still spend a lot time on the factory floor when needed to check processes in person or support with trials. It’s a great balance between technical work and practical problem-solving, and every day brings a new challenge or opportunity to improve how things are done. 

How did you end up in this job?

Admittedly, I never thought of food as a career option at first. I worked as a waiter for a few years and had an interest in science, but I hadn’t connected the two until I saw the advert for the Premier Foods degree apprenticeship. What really drew me in was how exciting and dynamic the role sounded — no two days the same, with real opportunities to learn on the job. The chance to work with such an iconic brand like Mr Kipling caught my attention too. Looking back, it’s one of the best decisions I’ve made; it’s opened up a career path I hadn’t even considered before. 

What advice would you give to someone thinking of pursuing this career?

Be curious and open to learning. Food technology is about more than science — it’s about understanding how products are made, how teams work together, and how to keep improving. Don’t be afraid to ask questions or get involved on the factory floor; that’s where you learn the most. A mix of attention to detail, problem-solving, and teamwork will take you a long way in this industry 

How long have you been doing your job?

14 months  

Has your salary changed since then – if not do you see salary progression?

Yes, Premier Foods has an apprentice pay structure that sees an annual increase in line with progression of qualification/responsibility