QA Officer

Position Purpose Statement
Responsible for the developmental processes of new product lines from market research until launch.
Responsible for maintaining, improving and standardising current product recipes and processes.

Primary Responsibilities and Accountabilities
This position will be responsible, but not limited to the following:
Researching new product and equipment opportunities.
Technical manufacturing recipe development.
Conducts analytical testing of products;
Raw material source and approval.
Accelerated and real-time shelf-life studies of product/s;
Drawing up packaging brief for product; sourcing an approval of suitable packing material
Liaising with suppliers, stores and buyers.
Assist in product launch.
Supports cross functional team and manage product cost cutting, sensory evaluation, and reformulation and improvement of current products.
Assisting in training a DSE panel. Panel leader in consumer tests and trials.
Agent for continuous improvement, drives results and assist in problem solving/root cause investigations of production problems.
Implementing and sustaining food safety system compliance in area of control: Ensuring the required quality, safety, hygiene and environmental standards are implemented, maintained and improved.
Ensuring hygiene standards, cleaning procedures, practices and equipment are continually re-evaluated and in line with best practice, customer guidelines and legislation.
Ensuring cleaning procedures in food manufacturing areas are maintained and correct use of cleaning materials (from handling to storage and documentation).

Qualifications and skills
Education:
Minimum of Bachelors degree or Diploma either in Food Sciences, or BSc Majoring in food technology is preferred.

Experience
A minimum of 5 years relevant experience
Knowledge of Quality Systems and Standards, i.e. HACCP and BRC
Knowledge of Health and Safety Standards, Food Safety Legislation and Compliance
Ingredient/equipment sourcing, approval, procurement, product costing, product development
Skills and competencies
Understanding Food Safety standards and compliance requirements
Ability to interpret, implement and adhere to policies, processes and objectives
Excellent analytical problem-solving and decision-making skills
Excellent Organizational and Work Planning Skills, Attention to Detail and Results Driven
Strong Analytical Skills (MS Access, MS Excel Simulation, Operational Research)
Good Interpersonal Relationships and Strong Communication Skills
Must be self-motivated, disciplined, ethical and confident.
Computer literacy, Word, Microsoft, etc.
Operating Environment
Production environment with time pressure where a person needs to be able to deliver accurate results fast and be able to perform under pressure.
Needs to have a valid drivers license and own vehicle.
Continuous change person needs to be agile and adapt quickly.

Salary - Market related