Quality Coordinator and Food Technologist

Job Overview

The role involves overseeing and verifying quality in all aspects of pet food production at Addiction Pet Foods, ensuring rigorous adherence to both internal standards and the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) Food Safety Program. As a Quality Coordinator and Food Technologist, you will engage in hands-on testing, support new product development trials, and maintain comprehensive quality documentation.

Core Responsibilities

• Ensure compliance with all relevant quality standards including MPI Food Safety Program and the company's QA manual.
• Perform and validate quality assessments on raw inputs, packaging materials, products in various production stages, and finished goods while accurately recording in-house test outcomes.
• Lead real-time quality monitoring during production to identify, segregate, and address any deviations.
• Manage retention samples to evaluate product quality and shelf life.
• Support and provide quality assurance during new product development and validation batches.
• Collaborate across various departments such as production, procurement, and customer service to align quality goals.
• Maintain a Quality Performance Dashboard with up-to-date metrics and trends.
• Propose and follow through on corrective and preventive actions (CAPA) for recurring quality issues.

Documentation and Audits

• Develop, revise, and update standard operating procedures, work instructions, quality manuals, and related protocols.
• Maintain controlled documentation in line with the document management system, ensuring all QA records like HACCP plans and test reports comply with MPI and company standards.
• Prepare detailed QA reports for audits, reviews, and management.
• Coordinate audit preparations for external assessments (MPI, client, or third party) and support internal audits, ensuring timely closure of findings.
• Conduct root cause analysis on non-conformances and implement effective corrective measures, tracking CAPA progress.

Training and Development

• Deliver food safety and quality training including induction and refresher courses for staff.
• Assist QA Team Lead in enhancing team skills and awareness of regulatory updates.
• Foster a culture focused on quality and ongoing improvement across the organization.

Incident Management and Continuous Improvement

• Participate in investigations of customer complaints, conduct root cause analysis, and ensure corrective actions are applied.
• Lead or contribute to quality improvement projects and process optimization initiatives.
• Develop new quality standards, supplier accreditation procedures, and product testing protocols.
• Perform additional duties as assigned individually or as part of teams or committees.

Qualifications and Skills

• Bachelor's degree in Food Technology, Food Science, or a related discipline.
• At least 2 years’ experience in the food industry with strong exposure to quality control and regulatory compliance.
• In-depth knowledge of MPI Food Safety Program, HACCP, GMP, and AAFCO standards.
• Practical experience in internal auditing, documentation management, and data analysis.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with excellent verbal and written English communication.
• Highly detail-oriented and organized.