Quality Coordinator and Food Technologist

Position Overview

Addiction Pet Foods invites applications for the role of Quality Coordinator and Food Technologist based in Te Puke, Bay of Plenty, New Zealand. This onsite position operates on a shifting schedule and focuses on ensuring all products meet stringent quality and safety standards.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage and assure adherence to internal and regulatory quality protocols including MPI Food Safety Program and the company's QA Manual.
• Perform quality inspections on raw materials, packaging components, interim products, and final finished goods, conducting necessary in-house testing and maintaining accurate records.
• Lead real-time quality surveillance on the production floor to promptly detect, isolate, and address non-compliance issues.
• Monitor retention samples regularly to assess product condition and verify shelf life stability.
• Provide quality assurance support during new product development trials and validation runs.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams including production, procurement, and customer service to align quality goals.
• Maintain an up-to-date Quality Performance Dashboard featuring key quality metrics and trends.
• Identify recurring quality issues and recommend and implement corrective and preventive actions, monitoring completion.
• Develop and regularly update standard operating procedures (SOPs), work instructions, quality manuals, and other relevant documentation following the document control system.
• Ensure all QA documentation such as HACCP plans, deviation reports, and test records remain current, traceable, and compliant with regulatory and company standards.
• Prepare detailed QA reports for audits, management reviews, and other official purposes.
• Develop and maintain raw material and packaging receiving guidelines.
• Coordinate preparations and participate in external audits including MPI and customer audits, supporting follow-up activities and closure of findings.
• Conduct root cause analysis of non-conformities and oversee the implementation of corrective/preventive measures including maintaining CAPA logs.
• Provide induction and ongoing food safety and quality training for employees to foster a culture of quality excellence.
• Assist the QA Team Lead with upskilling team members on updated quality standards and regulations.
• Manage customer complaint investigations, root cause analysis, and ensure effective corrective actions are implemented.
• Engage in continuous quality improvement initiatives, research, and process optimization projects, including leading small-scale projects as assigned.
• Contribute to the formulation of new quality standards, supplier accreditation protocols, and product testing methodologies.
• Carry out additional assigned tasks individually or collaboratively as needed.

Qualifications and Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Food Technology, Food Science, or a closely related discipline.
• At least two years of relevant experience in the food industry working as a Quality Coordinator or Food Technologist.
• Comprehensive expertise in quality control, regulatory compliance, and application of food safety standards.
• In-depth knowledge of MPI Food Safety Program, HACCP, GMP, and AAFCO standards.
• Proficient in documentation control, internal auditing, and data management systems.
• Strong analytical skills complemented by excellent problem-solving abilities and communication proficiency (oral and written) in English.
• Meticulous attention to detail and ability to maintain precise records.