Food Safety Officer | Cato Ridge, Durban

Dixie Recruitment; Durban; On-site; ZAR 360 000 - 480 000; Full time

Job summary

A food safety consulting agency in Durban is seeking a Food Safety Officer to ensure the safety and quality of food products. Key duties include conducting inspections, developing policies, and training food handlers. The ideal candidate has a degree in Food Science, relevant certifications, and a minimum of 4 years of experience in food safety. This position plays a crucial role in protecting public health and ensuring compliance with legal requirements.

Qualifications

• Minimum 4 years experience in Quality and Food Safety.
• In-depth knowledge of food safety legislation and industry standards.
• Experience in running a FSSC 22000 system.

Responsibilities

• Conduct inspections and audits to ensure compliance.
• Develop and implement policies related to food safety.
• Conduct risk assessments and monthly GMP audits.

Skills

Food safety legislation knowledge

Excellent communication skills

Data evaluation skills

Meticulousness in hazard identification

Ability to work independently

Education

Degree/Diploma in Food Science or related field

Relevant certifications (e.g. HACCP, FSSC 22000)

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.

Qualifications

• 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 effectivelyThe 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
• Investigating Incidents
• Developing and Implementing Policies
• Monitoring and Sampling
• Training and Education
• Documentation and Reporting
• 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)
• 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
• Create Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for laboratory equipment
• Schedule external verification of laboratory equipment
• 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.

We will be in contact with shortlisted candidates who meet the requirements detailed above. If you have not received a reply within 2 weeks, please consider your application unsuccessful.

By applying, you confirm that:

• We may retain your personal information in our database for future matching of suitable opportunities
• We may contact you when suitable opportunities arise
• The information you have provided to us is true, correct and up to date

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