QA Technologist

About Simplot Australia Pty Ltd

Simplot Australia Pty Ltd specializes in food manufacturing and agriculture, managing potato, vegetable, seafood, and sauce operations. They provide a broad range of frozen, chilled, and shelf-stable food products to major retail and foodservice clients across Australia and New Zealand. Globally, the J.R. Simplot Company operates 17 manufacturing and processing sites in various regions, employing 15,000 people to drive innovation and excellence in diverse industries.

Within Australia, the company is recognized for delivering quality and sustainable food products, utilizing premium Australian produce and international seafood under notable brands such as Leggo's, Birds Eye, Edgell, John West, and Chiko.

Culture and Values

Guided by the purpose "We Contribute to Feeding Our World," Simplot fosters a culture centered on Respect for Resources, Spirit of Innovation, and Passion for People. The company promotes diversity, equity, and inclusion, ensuring a safe and supportive workplace free from discrimination. Professional growth and career development opportunities are emphasized to help employees thrive.

Employee Benefits

• Leadership development programs and continuous professional growth options
• Flexible work schedules supporting work-life balance
• Employee rewards and recognition initiatives celebrating accomplishments
• Exclusive access to the Simplot Sensory Club for product tastings and culinary experiences
• Income Protection Insurance available to eligible employees

The hybrid work model includes one designated weekly in-office day to encourage innovation, connection, and teamwork.

Role Overview

This 14-month fixed-term contract based in Mentone, VIC, offers hybrid work options. As a QA Technologist within the Food Safety & Quality team, you will help ensure the delivery of safe, high-quality food products while supporting the launch of new and innovative items. Collaboration across Product Development, Procurement, Commercial, Food Safety, Quality, and Regulatory teams is key.

Key Responsibilities

• Evaluate food safety risks related to new products ensuring necessary controls are applied
• Assess microbiological, allergen, chemical, and physical hazards and verify proper product labeling
• Assist with quality and food safety investigations, incident responses, and technical troubleshooting
• Help guarantee compliance with import, export, and regulatory standards for new product introductions
• Ensure ongoing adherence to regulatory requirements, escalating issues as needed
• Lead and improve Simplot’s VACCP program effectiveness
• Manage applications for import permits concerning new products
• Develop and refine food safety and quality procedures

Candidate Profile

• Possess a tertiary degree in Food Science, Food Technology, or a related field
• Hold at least three years’ experience in a Quality or Food Safety role
• Demonstrate strong practical knowledge of HACCP and VACCP methodologies
• Experienced in risk evaluation for new food products and processes
• Familiar with manufacturing environments and capable of resolving production issues
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to collaborate and influence diverse teams and external suppliers
• Highly organized, proactive, able to work independently and manage multiple tasks
• Detail-focused with confidence handling specifications, documentation, and systems
• Experience with DAFF regulations and import permits is a plus, though not mandatory

Additional Information

Travel requirements are minimal, less than 10%. The position is located at GF Chifley Business Park Office, Mentone, Australia. Simplot is an equal opportunity employer encouraging applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander individuals.

Applications close Friday 28th August 2026, with recruitment possibly commencing before this date.