Food Safety Officer

Dixie Recruitment; Durban; On-site; ZAR 300 000 - 450 000; Full time

Job summary

A reputable recruitment agency in South Africa is seeking a Food Safety Officer to ensure the safety and quality of food products. The role includes conducting inspections, enforcing regulations, and educating food handlers. Ideal candidates will have a degree in a relevant scientific field and a minimum of 4 years experience in food safety and quality assurance. Strong analytical and communication skills are essential for this position.

Qualifications

• Minimum 4 years experience in Quality and Food Safety.
• Knowledge of HACCP, FSSC 22000, ISO 22000 is advantageous.
• Ability to work independently and uphold safety standards.

Responsibilities

• Conduct inspections and audits to ensure compliance.
• Develop and implement food safety policies.
• Train food handlers and document findings.

Skills

Food safety regulation knowledge

Analytical skills

Communication skills

Risk assessment competency

Attention to detail

Education

Degree / diploma in Food Science, Microbiology, Environmental Health, or Chemistry

Job description

We are looking for a Food Safety Officer to ensure the safety and quality of food products by conducting inspections, enforcing food safety regulations, investigating complaints, and educating food handlers on best practices.

In this role you will assess potential hazards, oversee hygiene standards, and take corrective actions to prevent foodborne illnesses or other contaminants, thereby protecting public health and ensuring compliance with legal requirements.

Minimum Requirements

• Degree / diploma in Food Science, Microbiology, Environmental Health, Chemistry, or a related scientific field. Relevant certifications (e.g. HACCP, FSSC 22000, ISO 22000) are advantageous
• Min 4 Years experience in Quality and Food Safety
• In-depth knowledge of food safety legislation, regulations, and industry standards. Knowledge and experience in running a FSSC 22000 system is critical
• Meticulousness in identifying potential hazards and ensuring strict compliance with detailed regulations
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills to clearly explain complex findings, provide training, write reports, and interact diplomatically with diverse stakeholders
• Strong skills in evaluating data and reports to make informed decisions and address challenges effectively
• The ability to work independently, make objective decisions, and firmly uphold safety standards without succumbing to external pressure

Key Responsibilities

Food Safety

• Conducting Inspections and Audits
• Enforcing Regulations
• Investigating Incidents
• Developing and Implementing Policies
• Food safety systems
• Monitoring and Sampling
• Training and Education
• Documentation and Reporting
• Risk Assessment
• Conduct regular FS meetings
• Record and monitor any Non-Conformance Reports (NCRs)

Quality

• Schedule laboratory testing for product verification
• Analyse laboratory results and provide feedback to senior management for action
• Approve and file Certificates of Analysis (COAs)
• Knowledgeable about laboratory equipment
• Create Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for laboratory equipment
• Schedule external verification of laboratory equipment
• Interpret the different quality parameters that are tested on wheat flour and understand what role it plays at baking level

Cleaning and Hygiene

• Liaise with other departments to ensure sufficient cleaning is being done to keep up with food safety standards.
• Evaluate cleaning methods and equipment
• Monitor outsourced services like Pest Control and general cleaning.
• Ensure work practices are safe and comply with regulations
• Monitor personal hygiene of staff and ensure wounds and cuts are covered to prevent food safety risks
• Arrange and monitor weekly laundry services
• Ensure all staff are wearing the correct PPE

Risk Assessment and Quality Control

• Conduct risk assessments
• Knowledgeable about laboratory equipment
• Create Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for laboratory equipment
• Schedule external verification of laboratory equipment
• Conduct internal audits
• Perform monthly Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) audits
• Evaluate and update specifications as required
• Interpret the different quality parameters that are tested on wheat flour and understand what role it plays at baking level