Location: Ashbourne Department: Technical / Quality Assurance Reports To : Food Safety & Quality Manager Employment Type : Permanent Job Purpose To implement, audit, and continually improve the Quality Assurance System by providing technical support to Production, Maintenance, and Hygiene teams. This role ensures food safety and product integrity in line with customer quality standards and legislative requirements, taking corrective actions to maintain product specifications. Key Responsibilities Quality Assurance Conduct audits of the factory environment, processes, products, and records to ensure compliance with agreed standards. Report technical status and non-compliance issues, both verbally and in writing, and support the development of corrective action plans. Maintain and improve the QA system, ensuring retrievability of records and verification of product safety and quality. Audit HACCP systems and traceability from ingredients to customer delivery. Perform critical QA tasks including thermal process validation, calibration, and temperature monitoring. Provide technical guidance and training to cross-functional teams. Participate in problem-solving and project work related to technical and hygiene issues. Continuous Improvement Promote workplace organisation and contribute to ongoing improvements in QA processes. Environmental Responsibility Support initiatives to reduce energy usage, waste, and carbon footprint across the business. Health & Safety Implement and uphold company Health & Safety policies. Ensure safe working practices, training, and compliance within the department. Conduct regular safety inspections and ensure corrective actions are taken. Maintain COSHH assessments and safe storage of substances. Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) Food Safety Site Index Monthly Product Quality Score Audit Grades Timely and accurate response to customer queries and complaints Knowledge, Skills & Experience Essential Strong communication and interpersonal skills across departments GCSEs (or equivalent) in Maths & English (Grade C or above) Self-motivated, organised, and assertive with problem-solving abilities Proficient in Microsoft Excel, Word, and PowerPoint Team-oriented and customer-focused Desirable A-Level or HND in a food-related subject Experience in a similar food quality role Knowledge of HACCP, BRC Standards, Food Legislation, and Food Hygiene Advanced Diploma in Food Hygiene Management Intermediate Certificate in Applied HACCP Principles