Level 3 Food Technologist

Introduction to the Apprenticeship

Food industry technologists are the guardians of food quality and safety, and ensure that products are of the highest standard, meet legislation, and are safe to eat and drink. They maintain documentation in line with product specifications and company policies. They ensure that technical and quality standards are consistently met while optimising efficiency to meet business needs. They may improve existing products as well as launch new ones while ensuring product safety and quality. They are subject matter experts in their field and are likely to work with teams to develop effective manufacturing processes ensuring that technical and quality standards are consistently met. A food quality specialist monitors the quality of the food and drink product. A food development specialist contributes to the development of new and existing food products.

In their daily work, an employee is likely to report to a technical professional from the food industry. They interact with a range of internal stakeholders, including teams in production, commercial, supply chain, engineering, finance, and health, safety, and environment. They may also deal with external stakeholders such as auditors, suppliers, and customers.

Apprenticeship Standard

For more information about the Level 3 Food Technologist standard, please visit:

https://www.instituteforapprenticeships.org/apprenticeship-standards/food-industry-technologist-v1-1

Apprenticeship Modules

Legislation and regulations
Processing standards and parameters to specification
Raw materials
Systems and processes
Product sampling; microbiology principles, nutrition and sensory evaluation
Interpret and data analysis
Resolve technical issues
Continuous improvement activities

There are specific quality and new product development modules specific to a quality, technical, or new product development role.

Apprenticeship End Point assessment

All apprentices must spend a minimum of 12 months on-programme (before the gateway) working towards the occupational standard and should meet the off the job requirements for an apprenticeship.

The EPA period should only start once the employer is satisfied that the apprentice is deemed to be consistently working at or above the level set out in the occupational standard. Apprentices without English and Mathematics at level 2 must achieve level 2 prior to taking their EPA. The EPA must be completed within an EPA period lasting typically 4 months, The EPA consists of 3 discrete assessment methods.