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Product Development Technical Support (Technologist) (Fixed Term role - 12 months)

Southampton, United Kingdom

Contract Type Fixed Term
Career Level Non-management
Function Operations
Salary Range Competitive salary
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Why Operations? Overview

Why Operations?

We intelligently connect our teams globally enabling thinking beyond conventional boundaries. We share knowledge at an unfathomable pace, facilitate cross-functional collaboration and transform processes to create the world’s best operational network. Our work enables our experts to feel in control of their ability to explore New Categories, acquire fresh expertise and accelerate the rate at which they can deliver results.

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Why BAT?

At BAT, we’re committed to more than just jobs, we’re dedicated to purposeful careers - It's one of the many reasons we have been named as a Global Top Employer for the eighth consecutive year.

We believe that Leadership shouldn’t be confined to titles. It’s a mindset and through our leading Learning and Development programmes, you’ll continuously develop your skills and experience. With our unwavering support, you’ll work in cross functional teams connecting with industry leaders and expanding your professional network.

Join us at BAT, where purpose meets possibility, and your career story unfolds.

A Better Tomorrow

Building a Smokeless World is no small feat—it’s fueled by the collective efforts of talented individuals, each bringing their unique perspective. This is the most innovative chapter in BAT’s history, and you can help shape it.

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Product Development Technical Support (Technologist) (Fixed Term role - 12 months)

BAT is evolving at pace into a global multi-category business.  We are on a mission to decrease the health impact of our industry 
To achieve our ambition, we are looking for colleagues who are ready to Be The Change. Come, join us on this journey!

British American Tobacco UK has an exciting opportunity for a Product Development Technical Support (Technologist) in Southampton (Fixed Term role – 12 months)

This is an evergreen requisition and please note that we are currently recruiting for 5 fixed term roles (12 months) with high possibility of a permanent extension based on performance review.

What are the key objectives and expectations from this role?

This role is chiefly responsible for the execution of assigned tasks using laboratory equipment and expertise across a range of projects and activities within the New Categories product development portfolio to support the delivery of the commercial vision of a product in the R&D pipeline.

What is the direct impact of this role on the team or organization?

This role will utilise knowledge of New Categories lab methodologies and broad scientific principles to assist a team of senior scientists and product developers in completing an element of a product development plan, whilst using this team experience to build out personal capabilities to expand technical knowledge of New Category products. 

Your key responsibilities will include:

  • To have accountability for the delivery of assigned activities across a portfolio of projects and activities within the New Categories product development portfolio
  • To hold lab expertise in operating the required machinery/testing capabilities in order to perform assigned tasks in the required time frames to chip in to the testing of new products and technology.
  • To have the technical understanding of workstreams within the product development plan of a given project in order to deliver the assigned tasks within the required timescales and in line with product launch target dates.
  • To have awareness of standard processes and compliance using technical knowledge and broad scientific principles to ensure effective delivery of an appropriate given task.
  • To assist and work closely with the more senior technical roles within the team with a focus on upskilling personal breadth and depth of technical knowledge in new categories product development and learning the chemistry of substances such as heated substrates.

What are we looking for?

  • Ability to deliver against a portfolio of tasks within defined timescales.
  • Self-motivated, proactive with good time management and organisational skills, strong communication skills and ability to collaborate.
  • Comfortable with hands-on product development in laboratory environment
  • University degree in Science, Technology, Engineering or Mathematics
  • Or time served apprenticeship background as an engineering technician / HNC level qualification.

Beneficial

  • Ability to work in a Chemical laboratory, manipulating solvents, acids, and highly toxic substances.
  • Broad understanding of product testing approaches and data interpretation.
  • Broad knowledge of product research and related methodologies. 
  • Basic understanding of product development principles and processes.
  • Proficient in Microsoft Office (e.g. Excel & PowerPoint).

What we offer you?
•    We offer a market leading annual performance bonus (subject to eligibility)
•    Our range of benefits varies by country and includes diverse health plans, initiatives for work-life balance, transportation support, and a flexible holiday plan with additional incentives
•    Your journey with us isn't limited by boundaries; it's propelled by your aspirations. Join us at BAT and become a part of an environment that thrives on internal advancement, where your career progression isn't just a statement – it's a reality we're eager to build together. Seize the opportunity and own your development; your next chapter starts here.
•    You'll have access to online learning platforms and personalized growth programs to nurture your leadership skills
•    We prioritise continuous improvement within a transformative environment, preparing for ongoing changes

WHY JOIN BAT?
We’re one of the few companies named as a Global Top Employer by the Top Employers Institute – certified in offering excellent employee conditions.

At BAT, we champion collaboration, inclusion, and partnership as the bedrock of our values. We wish to foster an environment where every individual can thrive, irrespective of factors such as gender, sexual orientation, marital or civil partnership status, gender reassignment, race, religion or belief, colour, nationality, ethnic or national origin, disability, age, skills, experience, education, socio-economic and professional background, as well as diverse perspectives and thinking styles. We recognise that our strength lies in embracing talent from all walks of life, empowering us to develop our culture of inclusivity and better achieve our business objectives.


We view career breaks not as obstacles but as opportunities and encourage everyone, without hesitation, to apply. Through our Global Returners program, we provide support to professionals seeking to re-enter the workforce after an extended absence, be it for family care, parental leave, national service, sabbatical, or starting their own venture.
Come bring your difference and see what is possible for you at BAT. Learn more about our culture and our award winning employee experience here.

We take pride in being a Disability Confident Employer. If you need any reasonable adjustments or accommodations to be made during the recruitment process to support you performing at your best, please inform the recruitment partner who will be in touch should your profile be selected for the role you applied for. We are wholeheartedly committed to optimising your prospects of success by making suitable arrangements so that you may showcase your full potential.

Apply Now

Our Values

At BAT, our values show us the way to bring our purpose to life. Serving as our compass, they navigate every aspect of our path towards A Better Tomorrow™ defining how we innovate, grow, and achieve success while setting high standards for individual achievement and collective progress. Rooted in integrity and collaboration, they empower us as pioneers of change in a world that never stands still ensuring we shape BAT's legacy with confidence and purpose.

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  • Truly inclusive
  • Do the right thing
  • Love for our consumer
  • Passion to win
  • Empowered through trust
  • Stronger together
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Take Control of Your Future with BAT

At BAT, we’re committed to more than just jobs, we’re dedicated to purposeful careers.

We believe that everyone has a place in our organisation. Whether you are seeking mentorship, diversifying your experience through international assignments or embracing innovative work methods, we’re here to propel your career aspirations and unleash your full potential.

We believe in you.
Join us at BAT, where purpose meets possibility, and your career story unfolds.

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“One of my job responsibilities is leading initiatives that develop new capabilities for our operations team. In our Nairobi factory, we’re devoted to closing gaps and reducing losses that might happen in manufacturing processes and improving operational results.”

Benefits

At our core, we understand your best work happens when you feel fully supported. Our meticulously
designed reward and benefits package are shaped to acknowledge your contributions and to magnify
your impact. As you grow, so do we.

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Social Wellbeing

Wellbeing is better when it’s shared. Benefits that foster a sense of community and connection among employees. The more time we make to give back and share what it means to live well with the communities around us, the closer we’ll be to them. We encourage positive social interactions inside and outside BAT, enhance collaboration, and create a supportive work environment where employees feel valued and connected.

Emotional Wellbeing

Balancing work and life to help you recharge and stay resilient. Benefits and initiatives that are designed to bolster our employees' mental health. At BAT we're fostering a culture of to help our employees to better manage life’s pressures and build resilience, no matter what life throws your way.

Physical Wellbeing

Good health is the cornerstone that allows everything else in our lives to align. Benefits that support our employees' physical health, expand coverage where needed it and promote healthy lifestyles, reducing stress and boosting overall energy and productivity.

Financial Wellbeing

Peace of mind is priceless, but it shouldn’t cost the earth. Benefits and initiatives designed to assist you in achieving financial stability and security, empowering you to make well informed financial decisions, alleviate financial stress, and enhance your short and long-term prospects.

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