Food Safety and Quality Assurance Specialist

Placements24; Soweto; On-site; ZAR 480,000 - 720,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical aid and retirement benefits

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a highly skilled Food Safety and Quality Assurance Specialist for operations across South Africa, including Soweto. You will develop, implement, and monitor food safety management systems, conduct audits, and train staff to uphold safety, quality, and regulatory standards.

The ideal candidate holds a Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Microbiology, or a related field, with at least five years in food safety and QA.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or higher in Food Science, Microbiology, Chemistry, or related field.
• Minimum of 5 years in food safety, quality assurance, or quality control within the food industry.
• Deep knowledge of HACCP, GMPs and relevant food safety legislation.
• Experience conducting internal audits and developing food safety management systems.
• Strong data interpretation and regulatory analysis abilities.
• Excellent communication, training, and interpersonal skills.
• Proficiency with data analysis and reporting software.

Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain comprehensive food safety management systems (HACCP, ISO 22000).
• Conduct regular internal audits of facilities and supply chains for compliance.
• Investigate food safety incidents and customer complaints, addressing non-compliance.
• Deliver training on food safety, hygiene, and quality control across sites.
• Stay current with national and international food safety regulations and standards.
• Collaborate with suppliers to ensure safety of raw materials and ingredients.
• Monitor quality parameters and implement corrective actions.
• Prepare reports on food safety performance and audit findings.

Skills

Analytical skills

Communication skills

Interpersonal skills

Data analysis software

Education

Bachelor's degree or higher in Food Science, Microbiology, Chemistry, or related field

Tools

Food safety software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading food service provider with extensive operations across South Africa, is seeking a highly skilled and meticulous Food Safety and Quality Assurance Specialist . This critical role ensures that all food products and services meet stringent safety, quality, and regulatory standards. The Specialist will be responsible for developing, implementing, and monitoring food safety management systems, conducting audits, and providing training to staff across various sites, including those serving the Soweto community. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of food science, microbiology, and relevant legislation, coupled with a strong commitment to maintaining the highest levels of food safety and quality. This position is essential for upholding consumer trust and ensuring compliance.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and maintain comprehensive food safety management systems (e.g., HACCP, ISO 22000).
• Conduct regular internal audits of food production facilities, supply chains, and operational procedures to ensure compliance with safety and quality standards.
• Investigate and resolve food safety incidents, customer complaints, and non-compliance issues.
• Develop and deliver training programs on food safety, hygiene, and quality control for staff at all levels.
• Stay up-to-date with national and international food safety regulations and standards.
• Collaborate with suppliers to ensure the quality and safety of incoming raw materials and ingredients.
• Monitor and analyze food quality parameters and implement corrective actions as needed.
• Prepare reports on food safety and quality performance, including audit findings and recommendations for improvement.
• Liaise with regulatory bodies and external auditors as required.
• Promote a strong food safety culture throughout the organization.
• Maintain accurate records and documentation related to food safety and quality assurance.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree or higher in Food Science, Microbiology, Chemistry, or a related scientific field.
• A minimum of 5 years of experience in food safety, quality assurance, or quality control within the food industry.
• In-depth knowledge of HACCP principles, GMPs, and relevant food safety legislation.
• Experience conducting internal audits and developing food safety management systems.
• Strong analytical skills and the ability to interpret scientific data and regulations.
• Excellent communication, training, and interpersonal skills.
• Proficiency in relevant software applications for data analysis and reporting.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple tasks effectively.
• Knowledge of South African food regulations is essential.
• A proactive and meticulous approach to problem-solving.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary, comprehensive medical aid, and retirement benefits.
• This role provides an opportunity to contribute to a vital aspect of the food service industry in Soweto, Gauteng and beyond.
• You will work within a dedicated team focused on upholding the highest standards of food safety and quality, with opportunities for professional development and further certifications.
• Join an organization committed to ensuring the health and well-being of its customers through rigorous quality assurance practices.