Job Overview : The Quality Assurance Supervisor for the Blueberry Packhouse plays a pivotal role in maintaining and enhancing the quality and hygiene standards of the blueberry packing process.
Reporting directly to the Packhouse Manager, this position involves overseeing the Quality Control (QC) team, implementing procedures, ensuring compliance, and contributing to overall packhouse efficiency.
Duties & Responsibilities
- Hygiene and Procedures : Verify and enforce correct hygiene, fruit handling, and temperature procedures. Ensure adherence to hygiene rules and traceability procedures. Monitor for pest activity and foreign body contamination.
- Quality Control Management : Oversee the QC function in the packhouse. Evaluate QC staff, assign duties, and provide continuous training. Communicate inspection results and advise leadership on quality matters.
- Shelf-Life Assessments : Complete all shelf-life assessments. Collect, analyse, and communicate shelf-life data. Collaborate in decision-making regarding fruit avenues with the Packhouse Manager.
- Communication and Reporting : Communicate QC results, pests, and other relevant matters impacting fruit quality to growers. Report any concerns and conduct regular farm visits. Liaise with exporters / customers, packhouse, and production units regarding fruit quality.
- Data Analysis and Documentation : Maintain accurate and timely records. Collect and analyse relevant QC information for monitoring and decision-making.
- Collaboration and Training : Collaborate with the wider team, sharing knowledge and fostering a positive team environment. Provide training and continuous refresher courses to the QC team.
- Compliance and Audits : Oversee compliance functions at the packhouse. Assist with audits, provide advice, and make recommendations.
- Company Culture : Create a positive culture on the farm and in the packhouse by encouraging collaboration, self-motivation, and pursuit of excellence. Share knowledge and facilitate development.
Desired Experience & Qualifications
- 3 years relevant experience in quality assurance, preferably in the fruit industry.
- Professional certifications related to quality management (e.g., Six Sigma, ASQ) are desirable.
- Knowledge of blueberry production and post-harvest processes.
- Food Processing / Manufacturing experience.
- Ability to analyse data and make informed decisions.
Key Attributes
- Own transport.
- Proven leadership and management skills.
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
- Excellent ability to plan, organise and meet deadlines.
- Detail-oriented.
- Ability to compile, analyse and interpret data.
- Able to build strong collaborative working relationships with different levels of employees, growers, and customers.