Graduate NPD Chef

Reference
1114689

Branch
University of Northampton

Start date
31/08/2026

Duration
Other - See Job

Hours and days
Full Time

Dress code
Smart Casual

Rate of pay
-

Holiday rate
-

Role

York House Foods are looking for a passionate and creative Graduate NPD Chef to join their product development team. This role is ideal for someone at the start of their culinary development career who is eager to explore food innovation within a fast-paced, commercial environment.

You will support the development of exciting food products for the UK B2B market, learning how to turn creative ideas into products that can be produced at scale and enjoyed across foodservice, retail, and wholesale sectors.

Duties and responsibilities

• Assist in developing new recipes and adapting existing products for a range of customers.

• Bring fresh ideas by researching and exploring current food trends, flavours, and concepts.

• Support NPD sessions, helping to prepare and present food ideas to internal teams and customers.

• Work closely with experienced chefs, technical teams, and production colleagues to understand how products move from kitchen to factory.

• Help source ingredients and learn about cost awareness and product feasibility.

• Participate in factory trials to understand large-scale production and product consistency.

• Learn and follow food safety, allergen handling, and hygiene standards.

Skills and experience

Creative & Commercial Potential

• Curious and interested in food trends, new ingredients, and global cuisines.

• Creative mindset with a willingness to experiment and try new ideas.

• Interest in how food products are developed for customers and the wider market.

• Willingness to learn about balancing creativity with cost and practicality.

Personal Attributes

• Enthusiastic and keen to learn in a fast-paced environment.

• Strong team player who enjoys collaborating with others.

• Organised and able to manage tasks and deadlines.

• Positive attitude with a proactive approach to problem-solving.

• Passionate about food innovation and sustainability.

Education & Qualifications

• Culinary qualification (e.g., NVQ Level 2 or 3 Professional Cookery, or equivalent)

• Food hygiene certification (preferred but not essential)

Desirable Interests (Not Essential)

• Interest in meat, plant-based, or alternative protein development

• Awareness of food trends such as street food, global flavours, or convenience foods

• Curiosity about new cooking techniques (e.g., sous-vide)

Location
Potton, Bedfordshire

Additional information
This is a permanent role, offering 30-34k per year for the right candidate. 

How to apply
To apply for this role please contact Dan Golob - NPD Manager - DG@yorkhousefoods.com with your CV and cover letter