Quality Assurance Lab Technician- Meat Plant

Summary

The Quality Assurance / Lab Technician is responsible for ensuring that CPJ’s products consistently meet agreed standards through consistent implementation and monitoring of required parameters , and effective food safety and quality management systems .

• Duties and Responsibilities:
• Assist the QA Manager in the development, implementation and maintenance of the company’s food safety and quality management systems (FSQMS ) , inclusive of the Prerequisite Programme and Hazard Analysis Critical Control Points (HACCP) system in the food manufacturing, handling, storage and distribution facilities.
• Assist in improving and driving corporate food safety culture.
• Ensure that all food products processed conform to public safety regulations and standards established by local and foreign regulatory bodies e.g. Bureau of Standards, Jamaica, US FDA/ FSMA, United Sates Department of Agriculture (USDA), among others.
• Inspect and record all pertinent information relevant to the receipt of all raw materials/ingredients.
• Monitor food production facility temperature and calibrate equipment (e.g., thermometer, pH meter)
• Ensure that all Meat Plant quality checks are undertaken and documented and , assist in resolving quality issues which may arise.
• Review all product and product information to ensure accuracy in labeling and packaging.
• Work closely with the Meat Plant Production team to ensure compliance with product specification and regulatory requirements.
• Conduct sensory analysis on finished products .
• Collect samples for external and/or internal microbiological analyses , sample retention and shelf-life assessment .
• Conduct chemical tests ( e.g. salinity, pH, fat analysis, residual chlorine) and microbiological testing, as required .
• Assist in maintaining the microbiology laboratory facilities and equipment in good condition .
• Support , maintain and conduct sanitation verification checks such as ATP and environmental monitoring programme to ensure acceptable food safety standards of the plant . Identify and investigate areas of concern and communicate information to all levels of staff. Identify continuous improvement measures and work with the Quality Assurance and Production teams towards continuous improvement.
• Ensure proper documentation of all non-conformances to CPJ’s FSQMS and the subsequent corrective actions.
• Ensure compliance to all established SOPs, food safety requirements, good manufacturing practices, and sanitation requirements in accordance with CPJ’s FSQMS.
• Conduct GMP inspections , and where possible, assist with internal audits and supplier audits as per the company’s internal audit schedule.
• Assist in o verse eing the use and replenishment of sanitation supplies and personal protective equipment (PPE) .
• Actively participate in product research and development.

1.1 General Responsibilities

• To implement any activity, process or strategy that will improve the competitive advantage of the company, in consultation with the Food Safety, Quality and Sustainability Committee.
• Ensuring the maintenance of the good name and reputation of Caribbean Producers Jamaica Ltd. in general through the demonstration and practice of the highest standards of ethical conduct.
• To abide by the disciplinary code of the company.
• Any other duties as may be assigned.
• Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:
• Well organized and methodical approach to work and the work environment.
• Capable of analytical/critical thinking
• Must be computer proficient including use of Microsoft platform (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, etc.)
• Good decision making, planning and problem-solving skills
• Must display initiative and ability to work independently
• Should possess good written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to develop and maintain good relationships with colleagues, staff and customers
• Excellent time management skills and ability to multi-task
• Ability to work flexible hours as the needs of the service dictate, including out of normal hours as required
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment whil st adhering to basic occupational health and safety guidelines
• Ability to work within Company Policies
• Education & Experience:
• At least a Bachelor of Science Degree in a Technical Discipline ( Microbiology, Food Science, Chemistry, etc.) or equivalent qualifications
• At least 2 years’ experience in a food processing industry in a similar capacity
• A good knowledge of microorganisms in foods and ability to apply such knowledge towards food safety and quality of products.
• Food safety ( e.g. HACCP) and quality (e.g. ISO) certification are desirable
• Knowledge and understanding of relevant Health and Safety Regulations
• A current Food Handler’s Permit