Be part of something big
We look at what is wrong with food to figure out how to make it the best it can be, without being bound by the way it has always been done. This kind of innovative thinking has led Finnebrogue to multiple awards, nationwide acclaim and has established us as a leading food producer. In 2024, we were recognised as the UK’s Employer of the Year by Grocer Gold and the Best Place to Work in Northern Ireland by the Irish News Workplace & Employment Awards. Our robust People Strategy offers career pathways and development opportunities for all employees, emphasising talent growth and wellbeing with generous benefits for all. We are proud to be the first food producer in the UK and Ireland to achieve the Diversity Mark accreditation and are committed to fostering an inclusive and supportive workplace. With four sites in Downpatrick, County Down, our business continues to grow rapidly, with turnover growing from £50M to £200M in the past 6 years. Join us at Finnebrogue, where innovation meets excellence, and every team member is valued and empowered to grow.
The Role
At Finnebrogue, the Packaging Technologist plays a vital role in driving innovation and efficiency on the factory floor. The purpose of this role is to develop and introduce new packaging, ingredients, and processes that not only meet internal and external compliance standards but also enhance product performance, sustainability, and cost-effectiveness. Working across multi-disciplinary teams, the Packaging Technologist leads projects from concept through to commercialisation—ensuring that every solution delivers on quality, machine performance, and customer expectations.
From contributing to large-scale factory investment projects to running production trials and validating shelf-life, this role is central to both the optimisation of existing products and the successful launch of new ones. By identifying the best packaging alternatives, supporting key stages of development, and implementing improved specifications, the Packaging Technologist helps Finnebrogue stay ahead of industry standards—delivering value through smarter systems, better processes, and market-ready innovations.
What it takes
We’re looking for a Packaging Technologist who’s not only technically skilled but also innovative, detail-driven, and excited by the challenge of bringing new ideas to life on the factory floor. You’ll thrive in this role if you have a deep understanding of packaging materials and machinery, paired with a hands-on approach to problem-solving and a passion for continuous improvement.
The ideal candidate will have at least two years' experience in a packaging-focused role and hold a PIABC Level 3 Certificate in Packaging Technology (or equivalent). You’ll be confident leading development projects from concept through to commercialisation, ensuring packaging solutions meet standards for quality, efficiency, sustainability, and cost. If you enjoy working across disciplines, solving real-world challenges, and making a visible impact on product quality and performance, this role is made for you.
Hours of Work
37.5 hours per week, Monday to Friday, with core hours being 10am to 4pm.
Benefits
Working within one of our state of the art premises you will enjoy a range of benefits including the ability to relax during your break in a restaurant standard canteen with all meals subsidised. We even offer free breakfast and lunch options. You will enjoy free onsite car parking and electric charging points. You will be entitled to free products weekly (Up to 5 free products per person) through our award winning “Shack Initiative.” We have a packed calendar of wellbeing, social and sport events.
After you have settled into the Finnebrogue family your perks will only increase including a Healthcare plan, cycle to work scheme, new electric car scheme and we won’t forget the days that are important to you, you will receive your birthday as a holiday day! Our list of benefits continue to grow and you don’t have to just take our word for it. We have been awarded Irish News and Grocer Gold Employer of the Year as testimony to the exciting culture and benefits we offer.
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