Quality Lead

Scientific & Technical Recruitment; Auckland; On-site; NZD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

JobAdder Operations Pty in Auckland is seeking a senior Quality Assurance Specialist to own quality systems, audit readiness and food safety performance. This is a hands-on role focused on improving site quality without people management responsibilities.

You will lead external audits, maintain HACCP and BRC compliance, and work closely with production teams to turn quality requirements into practical floor standards.

Qualifications

• Significant quality experience gained within a food manufacturing environment.
• Proven experience independently leading external audits and dealing confidently with auditors
• Strong knowledge of BRC or another GFSI‑recognised standard, HACCP and food safety systems
• Excellent communication and influence, particularly when working with production operators
• Commercial judgement and a pragmatic approach; chocolate or dry blending experience is a bonus

Responsibilities

• Take ownership of BRC and customer audit preparation and confidently lead site audits
• Maintain and continually improve HACCP, food safety and quality management systems
• Drive internal audits, corrective actions, root cause investigations and risk assessments
• Oversee allergens, traceability, specifications, document control and low‑moisture risks
• Work closely with operators to embed practical, effective quality standards on the floor

Skills

Quality management

Audit leadership

GFSI knowledge

HACCP knowledge

Communication & influence

Commercial judgement

Chocolate experience

Job description

Take ownership of quality and audit performance in a hands‑on senior role with real influence

We’re working with an established and growing Auckland food manufacturer to find an experienced Senior Quality Assurance Specialist who can take real ownership of quality systems, audit readiness and food safety performance.
This is a senior, hands‑on position rather than a people‑management role. You’ll need the technical knowledge and confidence to lead auditors through the site independently, while also building strong relationships with production teams and turning quality requirements into practical solutions.
There will inevitably be grey areas. We’re looking for someone with the judgement to protect food safety and quality standards while understanding the commercial realities of a busy manufacturing environment.

What you will do

• Take ownership of BRC and customer audit preparation and confidently lead site audits
• Maintain and continually improve HACCP, food safety and quality management systems
• Drive internal audits, corrective actions, root cause investigations and risk assessments
• Oversee allergens, traceability, specifications, document control and low‑moisture risks
• Work closely with operators to embed practical, effective quality standards on the floor

What we are looking for

• Significant quality experience gained within a food manufacturing environment
• Proven experience independently leading external audits and dealing confidently with auditors
• Strong knowledge of BRC or another GFSI‑recognised standard, HACCP and food safety systems
• Excellent communication and influence, particularly when working with production operators
• Commercial judgement and a pragmatic approach; chocolate or dry blending experience is a bonus

What’s in it for you

• Take on a senior quality role where you can genuinely influence how things are done
• Own audit performance and key quality systems without the responsibility of managing a team
• Work across an interesting manufacturing environment spanning dry goods and chocolate
• Join a growing New Zealand manufacturer focused on strengthening its quality capability
• Enjoy a visible, hands‑on position working closely with operations and senior stakeholders

To apply for this vacancy, you MUST be a New Zealand citizen, or resident, or have already secured the right to work in New Zealand and therefore hold a valid visa.