Quality Controller

About Keelings

Keelings is a family-run Irish company that is fully owned in Ireland and focuses on fresh produce. The business operates across Ireland, the UK, and Europe, growing, sourcing, and supplying high-quality fruit and vegetables. Its growth is driven by innovation, sustainability, strong partnerships, and the commitment of its people.

Role purpose

This position is responsible for making sure all produce received by the business and all produce sent out meets customer specifications and internal procedures. The role also supports better understanding of product quality, encourages a positive work culture, and reinforces good manufacturing practice along with health and safety standards.

Key accountabilities and responsibilities

• Check all produce against the relevant customer or RM specifications at the required stages, including intake, storage, in-process packing, dispatch, and shelf-life inspections.
• Complete quality and inspection records accurately and in line with company procedures.
• Carry out destructive testing where relevant, record the findings, and identify any product that must be quarantined. Testing may include checks such as pressure and Brix.
• Follow documented inspection and testing procedures when performing routine checks.
• Work closely with the intake and packhouse teams to ensure product is packed in line with procedures and customer requirements.
• Work towards KPIs set by the QA Manager, including performance, inspection/report accuracy, productivity, zero EPW, and reducing customer rejections.
• Follow health and safety rules at all times, protect your own safety and that of colleagues, and help maintain a safe workplace by reducing hazards and incidents.

Key performance indicators

• Number of pallets or lines checked per day.
• Reduction in customer rejections (QSL).
• Accurate and timely daily handovers.
• Maintaining strong hygiene standards.
• Completing daily tasks in a safe manner.
• Avoiding EPW.
• Completing functional checks efficiently and on time.

Skills and knowledge

Essential

• Strong IT and numeracy skills.
• Good literacy and numeracy.
• Physical fitness suitable for the demands of the role.
• Flexibility around working hours.
• Understanding of inspection methods and test/inspection equipment.
• A solid attendance, punctuality, and disciplinary record.
• Strong attention to detail.
• Good command of English.

Desirable

• Previous experience in a similar role is advantageous.
• Experience in a fresh produce environment is a plus.
• Ability to multitask.
• Comfortable working as part of a team and leading by example.

Benefits

• Staff discount at Keelings Farm Shop and a subsidised canteen.
• Free on-site parking, including access to electric vehicle chargers.
• Wellness initiatives, including wellness week.

Values

• People Matter
• Teamwork
• Integrity
• Passion for Achievement

Inclusion and diversity

Keelings aims to build a diverse and inclusive workforce. The company welcomes applicants from all cultures and backgrounds and values the different experiences and perspectives that colleagues bring.

Reasonable accommodation

If you need reasonable accommodation during the hiring process, you can contact [email protected].

Recruitment process

• CV submission and email acknowledgement of receipt
• Phone screening
• First interview
• Second interview
• Outcome and feedback