QA Technical Assistant

About Irish Country Meats

Irish Country Meats is the specialized sheep meat branch of ABP Foods Group, operating facilities in Camolin, Co. Wexford, Navan, Co. Meath, and Liege, Belgium. The group enjoys a strong market presence across Ireland, the UK, and mainland Europe, supplying a range of retail, foodservice, wholesale, and manufacturing customers. The company's success relies heavily on a skilled and dedicated workforce passionate about delivering the highest quality standards.

Position Overview

We are seeking to recruit a Quality Assurance/Technical Assistant based at our Navan, Co. Meath location. Reporting to the Quality Manager, the successful candidate will collaborate closely with Supervisors, Area Managers, Maintenance personnel, and the Operations Manager to maintain and enhance product quality and safety standards.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee product, process, food safety, and quality monitoring throughout all manufacturing stages.
• Inspect incoming products to verify compliance with specifications such as weight and temperature.
• Communicate product quality information effectively with suppliers and site management.
• Ensure employee adherence to all Food Safety and Hygiene Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
• Monitor and report quality metrics to site management.
• Coordinate with production and planning teams regarding customer requirements.
• Manage non-conforming products by applying holds, negotiating rejection rates, and overseeing review and release as appropriate.
• Conduct pre-operational cleaning verification and inspections.
• Educate employees on food safety standards and best practices.
• Maintain accurate recording, reporting, and filing of all relevant records and documentation.
• Collect product samples for Product Development, laboratory retention, and customer samples as directed.
• Handle customer queries and complaints efficiently.
• Manage internal and external non-conformances and lead root cause analysis to implement lasting corrective actions.
• Identify and execute opportunities to improve quality in manufacturing and business processes consistent with Continuous Improvement principles.
• Represent the company’s technical expertise during customer meetings as needed.

Performance Indicators

• Achieve and sustain complaint reduction targets in collaboration with production teams.
• Maintain and enhance all external and customer accreditations.
• Eliminate audit non-conformances associated with floor and production practices.
• Drive on-site GMP audit processes to raise site standards.
• Ensure compliance with structural audits and maintenance protocols.
• Maintain traceability standards across the entire production process.
• Note: Given the nature of quality and food safety roles, responsibilities may evolve to meet business needs.

Candidate Profile

• Possess a third-level degree in Food Science, Agricultural Science, or a related discipline.
• HACCP certification is desirable.
• Practical, hands-on approach to problem solving and solution development.
• Capability to manage tight deadlines and juggle multiple priorities simultaneously.
• Energetic and proactive mindset.
• Strict adherence to confidentiality with sensitive information.
• Demonstrates personal credibility and confidence in decision-making.
• Results-driven focus with a commitment to excellence.
• Exemplary attendance and punctuality record.

Salary and Application

The remuneration package will be commensurate with the significance of the role and the candidate's experience. Candidates interested in joining an innovative and progressive Irish food company are encouraged to submit their CV and a cover letter.