At a Glance
- Tasks: Ensure food safety through inspections and quality control in meat production.
- Company: Join the Food Standards Agency, a vital part of the UK's food safety system.
- Benefits: Enjoy a 4-day work week, competitive pay, and career progression opportunities.
- Other info: On-the-job training provided with potential for career growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on food safety and public health across the UK.
- Qualifications: Strong communication skills and attention to detail required.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 € per year.
Are you a driven individual with excellent communication skills? Are you looking for a rewarding role that will have a real life impact on everyone in the UK? If so, these exciting opportunities to join the Food Standards Agency (FSA) as a Qualified Official Auxiliary (OA) are for you and we’d love to hear from you!
The FSA is a non‑ministerial department of over 1300 people, with a big vision – to drive change in the food system so that it delivers “food we can trust”. The heart of the FSA’s mission is to deliver “food we can trust”, and it’s more vital than ever that every precaution is taken to ensure the food on Britain’s plates is safe to eat, and exactly what it says it is.
Our meat production systems in abattoirs are one of the vital points of contact between the FSA and the food industry and represent an important on‑ground part of our work. By ensuring high standards of animal welfare, quality control and workplace best practice are adhered to, we can make an active and ongoing difference in both the quality of the meat that reaches our plates but also the reputation that our nation and its food exports have on the global markets.
The work the FSA does in abattoirs and food processing plants across the country each day has impact far beyond those factory walls. Our Official Auxiliaries are vital parts of this process, delivering these standards through a number of means. These will include the performance of ante‑and post‑mortem inspections of animals, unannounced inspections on working practices across your dedicated site, the collecting and dispatching of samples for offsite analysis and communication with both FSA team members and onsite staff to create the safest and healthiest factory environment.
Where will I be working? You’ll be working in the following FBO Plant within the East region of the UK:
- Cluster 14: Cranswick Country Foods, The Abattoir, Brandon Road, Watton, Norfolk, IP25 6LW
Working Pattern: 4 Day Week, Fixed non‑working day, 9.25 hours + 1 hour contractual overtime per day
Working Pattern: Monday + Tuesday 07.15am – 14.30pm, Wednesday + Thursday 07.15am – 16.00pm, Sunday 07.15am – 16.00pm. Contractual Overtime Wednesday + Thursday 1.25 hours, Half Time Overtime Sunday - Cluster 19: Forge Farm Meats, Powder Mill Lane, Southborough, Kent, TN4 9EG
Working Pattern: 4 Day week, 9.25 hours, 07.30am – 17.15pm
It is a mandatory requirement that you need to reside within 60 miles or 90 minutes of your preferred plant location. Should you be offered a position with us, we will verify that you reside within this remit as part of the pre‑employment process and failure to meet these requirements may result in your offer of employment being withdrawn. Please note that other plants may become available throughout the year, and candidates who are placed on reserve will be offered these positions when they become available.
About you: We are looking for driven individuals who are able to maintain focus on repetitive tasks. You will be comfortable working in a busy factory environment with early start times, working a core 37 hrs each week with an option to be deployed on a 5, 4 or 3‑day working pattern based on business demand and operational requirements of the base plant allocated (please note this working pattern will only apply once you have successfully completed the training). You will have strong communication skills that will allow you to talk with onsite staff across company hierarchies to influence and guide decision making as part of our FSA team. A sharp attention to detail is required for this role, and as such we can regrettably only consider those with normal colour vision (trichromacy) for this role.
With on‑the‑job training, and plenty of opportunities for progression in the FSA, the Qualified Official Auxiliary gives you a strong first step if you’re seeking to build a career around keeping Britain’s food safe for all.
Qualified Official Auxiliary – East in Norfolk employer: Food Standards Agency
The Food Standards Agency (FSA) is an exceptional employer dedicated to ensuring food safety and quality across the UK, offering a meaningful role as a Qualified Official Auxiliary. With a strong commitment to employee growth through on-the-job training and a supportive work culture, you will be part of a vital mission that impacts public health and the reputation of British food exports. Enjoy a flexible 4-day work week, competitive overtime options, and the opportunity to make a real difference in the food industry while working in a collaborative environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Qualified Official Auxiliary – East in Norfolk
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the Food Standards Agency (FSA) inside out! Research their mission, values, and recent projects. This will not only help you in interviews but also show your genuine interest in the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your communication skills! Since this role requires strong interaction with onsite staff, consider role-playing scenarios with friends or family to boost your confidence and clarity.
✨Tip Number 3
Network like a pro! Connect with current or former FSA employees on LinkedIn. They can provide insider tips and might even refer you for the position, giving you a leg up in the application process.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the FSA team and making a difference in food safety.
We think you need these skills to ace Qualified Official Auxiliary – East in Norfolk
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for food safety and quality shine through. We want to see that you genuinely care about making a difference in the food system!
Tailor Your CV:Make sure to customise your CV to highlight relevant experience and skills that match the job description. We love seeing how your background aligns with our mission at the FSA.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon so we can easily understand your qualifications and motivations.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role.
How to prepare for a job interview at Food Standards Agency
✨Know the FSA Inside Out
Before your interview, take some time to research the Food Standards Agency and its mission. Understand their role in ensuring food safety and quality in the UK. This knowledge will not only impress your interviewers but also help you articulate how your skills align with their goals.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
As a Qualified Official Auxiliary, strong communication is key. Prepare examples of how you've effectively communicated in past roles, especially in busy environments. Think about times when you influenced decisions or guided others, as these stories will highlight your suitability for the role.
✨Demonstrate Attention to Detail
Given the nature of the job, attention to detail is crucial. Be ready to discuss specific instances where your keen eye for detail made a difference. Whether it was spotting an error or ensuring compliance with standards, these examples will showcase your fit for the position.
✨Prepare for Practical Scenarios
Expect questions that may involve practical scenarios related to inspections and working practices. Think through how you would handle various situations on the job. This preparation will show that you're not just knowledgeable but also ready to tackle real-world challenges in the role.
