At a Glance
- Tasks: Ensure food safety and quality through inspections and communication in a busy factory environment.
- Company: Join the Food Standards Agency, a vital part of the UK's food safety system.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, fixed working hours, and opportunities for career progression.
- Other info: On-the-job training provided with potential for growth within the FSA.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on food safety and quality across the UK.
- Qualifications: Strong communication skills and attention to detail are essential.
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?
- 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
- 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
Please refer to the map on the candidate pack which highlights the location of each cluster across the UK. 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 Watton at Stone employer: Food Standards Agency
The Food Standards Agency (FSA) is an exceptional employer, offering a meaningful role as a Qualified Official Auxiliary that directly impacts food safety across the UK. With a strong commitment to employee development, a supportive work culture, and a structured 4-day work week, the FSA provides a unique opportunity to contribute to public health while enjoying a balanced lifestyle. Join us in our mission to ensure 'food we can trust' and be part of a dedicated team making a real difference in the food industry.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Qualified Official Auxiliary – East in Watton at Stone
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the FSA and its mission! Research their values and recent initiatives. This will help you tailor your conversations during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in making a difference in the food system.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your communication skills! Since this role requires strong interaction with various staff, consider role-playing scenarios with friends or family. This will boost your confidence and help you articulate your thoughts clearly.
✨Tip Number 3
Network like a pro! Connect with current or former FSA employees on LinkedIn. Ask them about their experiences and any tips they might have for landing a role as a Qualified Official Auxiliary. You never know who might help you get your foot in the door!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows that you’re proactive and serious about joining the FSA team. Don’t miss out on this opportunity!
We think you need these skills to ace Qualified Official Auxiliary – East in Watton at Stone
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 industry!
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 will not only show your genuine interest but also help you answer questions more effectively.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
As a Qualified Official Auxiliary, strong communication is key. Prepare examples from your past experiences where you've successfully communicated with diverse teams or influenced decision-making. This will demonstrate your ability to work well with onsite staff and FSA team members.
✨Highlight Attention to Detail
Given the nature of the role, attention to detail is crucial. Be ready to discuss situations where your keen eye for detail made a difference, especially in repetitive tasks. This will reassure the interviewers that you can maintain high standards in a busy environment.
✨Prepare for Practical Scenarios
Expect to be asked about how you would handle specific situations related to inspections or working practices. Think through potential scenarios and how you would approach them. This will help you demonstrate your problem-solving skills and readiness for the role.
