Quality Assurance Lead Job Description
This is a senior leadership role, responsible for overseeing the site's food safety and quality management system. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in high-risk food manufacturing, a relevant science-based qualification, and excellent communication skills.
Key Responsibilities:
* Oversee and continuously improve the sites Food Safety and Quality Management System.
* Manage high-risk food production and canning operations, ensuring compliance with all relevant standards and legislation.
* Lead the implementation and maintenance of HACCP and hygiene systems (HACCP Team Leader).
* Maintain compliance with DAFF regulations and liaise with relevant officials and auditors.
* Ensure adherence to customer specifications and manage non-conforming product processes.
* Oversee laboratory testing, sanitation, and cleaning activities.
* Conduct internal audits and support customer and third-party audits (BRC, Bord Bia PQAS).
* Act as management representative for Bord Bia PQAS accreditation.
Quality Improvement & Process Control:
* Drive corrective and preventative action programs to resolve quality issues.
* Implement user-friendly control procedures to embed accountability across teams.
* Lead continuous improvement activities and participate in Lean/CI initiatives.
* Develop and support product and process improvements in collaboration with R&D and production.
* Analyse and report on quality performance metrics to site and group management.
Operations & Staff Management:
* Work collaboratively with the Site Manager and Group Technical Manager to align quality goals with operational needs.
* Support production teams in achieving yield, quality, and specification targets.
* Coordinate and supervise the technical team and ensure adequate staffing and training.
* Manage timekeeping, attendance, and disciplinary issues in line with company policy.
* Support induction, training, and ongoing development of site personnel.
* Ensure a proactive approach to health and safety across all site activities.
* Liaise with maintenance and contractors to maintain quality standards and operational efficiency.
Required Skills and Qualifications:
* Third-level qualification in Food Science, Food Technology, Microbiology, or a related discipline.
* Proven experience in a similar technical or quality management role within a high-risk food manufacturing environment.
* Strong understanding of HACCP, BRC, and Bord Bia PQAS standards.
* Excellent knowledge of food safety legislation and regulatory requirements.
* Demonstrated ability to manage teams and develop staff.
* Strong problem-solving, organisational, and analytical skills.
* Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities.
* Experience engaging with auditors, customers, and government bodies.
* Proficient in Microsoft Office and quality management systems.
Benefits:
* A challenging and rewarding career opportunity.
* The chance to work in a dynamic and fast-paced environment.
* A competitive salary and benefits package.
Others:
* Based in County Cavan.
* Working closely with the site management team and operations department.
* Responsibility for implementing and maintaining a robust quality management system.
Skills: quality assurance quality QA