Senior Verifier and Evaluator

Robert Walters New Zealand; Auckland; On-site; NZD 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A recruitment agency in New Zealand is seeking a Senior Verifier and Evaluator to conduct food safety verifications and mentor junior staff. The role offers autonomy, a supportive environment, and opportunities for professional growth while ensuring compliance with food safety regulations. Applicants should have extensive experience in food safety legislation and strong investigative skills. Apply now to contribute to meaningful food safety initiatives!

Benefits

Professional development opportunities

Supportive work environment

Qualifications

• Experience in conducting audits under the Food Act.
• Familiarity with MPI Food Safety Academy training modules.
• Strong understanding of HACCP principles.

Responsibilities

• Conduct third-party verifications of food control plans.
• Ensure compliance with relevant regulations.
• Mentor junior staff in their professional development.

Skills

Food safety knowledge

Communication skills

Investigative skills

Ability to mentor

Problem-solving abilities

Education

Knowledge of food safety legislation

Experience with MPI guidelines

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a Senior Verifier and Evaluator and a Junior Verifier and Evaluator to join their team. This role is ideal for someone who values professionalism, autonomy and has the confidence to work independently while mentoring others and upholding the highest standards of ethics and compliance. You can be based in Auckland or Wellington and you will need to travel 1 day a month (3 days at a time).

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct third-party verifications and evaluations of Template Food Control Plans, Custom Food Control Plans, and National Programmes (Levels 1–3).
• Ensure compliance with relevant regulation such as the Food Act 2014, MPI guidelines, Codex Alimentarius standards, and IANZ accreditation criteria.
• Mentor junior staff through peer reviews, shadow audits, witness assessments, and training programmes.
• Support the Technical Manager in facilitating verifier meetings, training sessions, and Continuous Professional Development (CPD) initiatives.
• Manage client relationships independently while adhering to company policies on ethics and conflicts of interest.

What We’re Looking For

• Have a good attitude, are approachable yet firm when needed and can maintain focus under pressure.
• Are confident working independently without direct supervision.
• Can "hold the line" by making tough decisions based on regulations and standards while balancing client relationships.
• Possess strong technical knowledge of food safety systems (HACCP), MPI guidelines, and awareness of ISO: IEC 17020 requirements.
• Demonstrate excellent communication skills to liaise effectively with clients, regulatory bodies, and internal teams.

Qualifications & Experience

To be successful in this role, you should have

• A sound working knowledge of food safety legislation (Food Act 2014, Food Regulations 2015) and industry standards.
• Extensive experience conducting audits or verifications under the Food Act.
• Familiarity with MPI Food Safety Academy training modules or equivalent certifications (desired).
• Strong investigative skills to identify risks or deficiencies efficiently.
• Experience mentoring or training other professionals in verification processes.

Why Join?

Our client values professionals who take ownership of their work while upholding the highest ethical standards. In this role, you’ll enjoy:

• The autonomy to manage your own workload while making meaningful contributions to food safety in New Zealand.
• Opportunities for ongoing professional development through mentoring programmes and CPD initiatives.
• A supportive environment that encourages integrity, responsibility, and continuous improvement.

How to Apply

If you’re ready to take on this challenging yet rewarding role as a trusted senior verifier/evaluator OR as a trusted junior verifier/evaluator in the food industry, we’d love to hear from you! Please submit your CV along with a cover letter detailing your experience in food safety systems and why you’re the right fit for this autonomous position. Lynda McMeekan will be handling your application.