At Saputo, we bring good to the table by making high-quality products, investing in our people, and supporting communities around the world . As a top 10 global dairy processor, we value contributions that matter and strive to foster an inclusive, growth-driven work environment. Ready to bring your best?
JUNIOR CHEESE GRADER
Nuneaton, Warwickshire, UK
Full Time | Permanent
ABOUT SAPUTO
Saputo Dairy UK are the company behind iconic British brands such as Cathedral City, Clover, Country Life, Frylight, Davidstow and Wensleydale—household names loved by millions.
Saputo Dairy UK is part of Saputo Inc., a top ten global dairy company, offering the best of both worlds: the agility and warmth of a dedicated UK business with the support and resources of a global group.
We pride ourselves on our inclusive, collaborative culture, where people are valued, supported and empowered to make a difference. Our commitment to sustainability, innovation and quality makes us a leader in the UK food industry.
Saputo’s Nuneaton site is our centre of excellence for cheese cutting and packing for the nation’s favourite cheeses.
ABOUT THIS OPPORTUNITY
We're looking for a Junior Cheese Grader to join our centralised Trading and Cheese Grading team based at the Saputo Nuneaton site.
The purpose of the Junior Cheese Grader role is to support the Cheese Grading team with the preparation, organisation, recording, and execution of cheese grading activities, while developing the skills, knowledge, and capability required to progress into a Cheese Grader role.
Working under the guidance of the Cheese Grading team, the Junior Cheese Grader will contribute to a robust and independent grading and allocation process, supporting cheese quality, stock utilisation, and consistency across the business.
This role would suit an early career professional who has a passion for cheese, sensory experience, and how grading can influence and impact business outcomes.
If you are someone who is willing to learn and wants to develop a career in a specialised and stable industry, then this opportunity is for you!
YOU’LL MAKE CONTRIBUTIONS THAT MATTER BY…
- Supporting with the organisation of cheese grading samples, for routine grading and ad-hoc requests
- Assisting with routine cheese grading activities alongside experienced graders, developing sensory assessment skills and an understanding of grading criteria
- Assisting with the day-to-day organisation and upkeep of the Cheese Grading Room, equipment, and consumables
- Working with Stock and Warehouse teams regarding stock/sample movements linked to grading
- Adhering to defined grading standards and procedures
- Escalating any cheese quality concerns, deviations from specification, or inconsistencies promptly to senior team members
- Supporting investigations into cheese quality issues as required, under supervision
- Actively developing cheese knowledge, grading capability, an understanding of age profiles, specifications, and customer requirements
- Building understanding of how grading decisions impact stock utilisation, quality, and commercial outcomes
- Working collaboratively with grading colleagues, technical teams, and operations to support smooth grading activity
- Communicating clearly and professionally, escalating issues appropriately
YOU’RE BEST SUITED FOR THE ROLE IF YOU HAVE…
- An interest in food quality and sensory assessment
- Strong skills in attention to detail and accuracy
- A willingness to learn and develop
- Good communication and teamwork skills.
- IT capability (E.g. data entry, spreadsheets, trackers)
- An understanding of food safety and hygiene standards
YOU’LL BE SET FOR SUCCESS IN THIS ROLE IF YOU SHOW…
- Accountability: Taking responsibility for your own tasks and following through
- A Learning Mindset: Being open to feedback and continuous development
- Attention to Detail: Working accurately and consistently
- Collaboration: Working well with others and supporting team objectives
- Professionalism: Handling quality related information with integrity and care
DESIRABLE ATTRIBUTES
- Experience in food manufacturing and / or quality in a manufacturing environment
- Exposure to sensory evaluation or quality assessment
WE SUPPORT AND CARE FOR OUR EMPLOYEES BY PROVIDING YOU WITH…
- Hybrid and flexible working opportunities
- Annual bonus up to 10% paid quarterly
- Long service recognition every 5 years
- Enhanced employer pension contributions
- Private Health Care
- Health Cash Plan - claim money back up to a set limit of c.£700 per annum on essential healthcare
- Life Assurance
- Free, on-site parking
- Discounted SDUK branded products
- Subsidised staff restaurant
- 25 Holidays + 8 bank holidays
- My Staff shop - access to exclusive benefits, free advice and savings - providing great discounts from thousands of the UKs largest retailers & service providers
For additional information on our benefits please go to: Employee Benefits | Saputo Dairy UK
DIVERSITY, EQUITY, AND INCLUSION AT SAPUTO
We support employment equity. Saputo strives to embed diversity and inclusion in its operations and invites candidates from all horizons to join our team.
We are an accredited Disability Confident Employer where we strive to ensure our site is inclusive and accessible for all.
To enable you to bring your best we will ensure you are provided with any physical or non-physical adjustments to support your participation in the job application and interview process.
Agencies - Thank you for your interest in working with Saputo Dairy UK. We do not pay fees or acknowledge any CV’s supplied to Saputo Dairy UK unless you have been briefed on the role by a member of the Talent Acquisition Team.
#SDUK2026
In the UK, Saputo is a producer of leading British food brands and value-added ingredients. We manufacture a range of cheeses, dairy spreads, and dairy-free products, with a portfolio of well-loved brands including Cathedral City, Clover, Country Life, Frylight and Wensleydale.
Whether your expertise lies in manufacturing, operations, supply chain, sales, quality assurance, or in any other function, your role is integral to our success.
You will make contributions that matter, all while working alongside colleagues who genuinely care about your success and who will roll up their sleeves to help.
