Port Elizabeth: Quality Systems Specialist

We are looking for a Quality Systems Specialist with the following skills and experience: PURPOSE OF FUNCTION The Quality Systems Specialist serves as the company’s expert in all Quality Assurance and Food Safety matters. The position assists with maintaining the company’s Quality Management System documentation to adhere with Quality, Food Safety, Regulatory and Customer standards, across both production facilities. The position is responsible for maintaining the company’s Supplier Quality program. JOB SPECIFICATION Bachelor’s degree (preferably in Food Science, Microbiology or equivalent). Advanced computer literacy in Microsoft Word and Excel. Three to five years working experience. A thorough understanding of laboratory practices and procedures. Excellent written and communication skills in English / Afrikaans. Strong knowledge of GLP’s (Good Laboratory Practices) and GMP’s (Good Manufacturing Practices). High level of initiative, responsibility, problem solving and trouble shooting skills, flexibility and eager to learn. Numerical and analytical skills. Solid record of attention to detail and strict adherence to procedures and policies. Strong organizational skills. Ability to work under pressure, in a busy and demanding environment. Willingness to learn and implement the company’s Food Safety Management System into the laboratory and factories. Experience in the Food Manufacturing Industry with a demonstrated ability to work cross functionally. Should ideally be a subject matter expert on Food Safety (HACCP); Quality Assurance (QA); Certifications Systems (FSSC 22000); Food Microbiology; Quality tools and Programs; and Specific knowledge and direct experience in ensuring adherence with South African regulations e.g., Foodstuffs, Cosmetics and Disinfectants Act. JOB DESCRIPTION Quality Assisting with the improvement, upholding and maintenance of the company’s Quality Management System. Assisting with the establishment and implementation of Food Safety and Quality Policies and Procedures; Standards and Specifications. Champion best practices in Quality and Food Safety and apply judgement and teamwork to ensure Quality initiatives contribute to the company’s overall success. Champion food safety culture. Assisting with ensuring that the company complies with Food Safety (HACCP); Quality Assurance (QA); Certifications Systems (FSSC 22000), South African regulations e.g., Foodstuffs, Cosmetics and Disinfectants Act and Customer requirements. Being an active member of the Internal Audit, Food Safety (HACCP), Food Defence (TACCP), Food Fraud (VACCP) and the Special Situations Teams. The Deputy for the SANS1841 standard – implementing and maintaining. Assist with Action Plans to close-out non-conformances of Internal and External Audits. Assist with non-conformance investigations and close-outs. Supplier Management Manage the Supplier Approval Process, alongside the Food Technologist, and perform audits of suppliers when required. Implement and manage the Supplier Quality Assurance control and documentation. Specify and monitor quality requirements of raw materials with suppliers. Calibration Managing and maintaining the company’s equipment calibration program. Training Educate and coach colleagues on Quality, Food Safety, Customer and Regulatory requirements. Appropriate training of all staff (on the job) on, e.g., HACCP, GMP, Employee Illness, Personal Hygiene, GLP’s, Sanitation, Pest Control, Traceability, Special Situations, Allergen Management, Extraneous Matter Management, Food Defence, etc. General Adhering to health & safety, all food safety procedures, requirements, and company policies, OHS Act and FSSC 22000. Adhering to GMP’s (Good Manufacturing Practices), personal hygiene and housekeeping procedures for the factory to produce products that are safe for human consumption. It is the responsibility of all staff members to report any non-conformance or event that could potentially have an impact on food safety to a Supervisor or Manager. Participate in external and in-house training. Any other tasks that may be assigned from the company when the need so arises. Other Completing purchase orders with quotes and the final invoices, and ensuring they match before submitting to the Accounts department. KEY SKILLS REQUIRED Confidence Planning, organisation, and coordination skills Excellent problem solving / analysis and ability skills (analytical thinking) Decision making skills Excellent technical capacity Good numerical skills and an understanding of statistics Communication proficiency Team working skills Good interpersonal and public relation skills Good presentation skills Work accuracy Moral and ethical Enthusiasm Pro-activeness and taking initiative Information seeking Organisational commitment Flexibility Concern for order TRAVEL As this position is responsible across both Production facilities. There will be the requirement to travel frequently between the two sites. When auditing other facilities, some out-of-the-area and / or overnight travel may be expected. Disclaimer The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified. All personnel may be required to perform duties outside of their normal responsibilities from time to time, as needed.