At a Glance
- Tasks: Conduct food safety audits for suppliers, ensuring compliance with standards and regulations.
- Company: Join Intertek, a leader in supplier assurance for major grocery retailers.
- Benefits: Flexible freelance hours, access to resources, and training in food safety.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on food safety excellence in the retail supply chain.
- Qualifications: Degree in food-related discipline, HACCP Level 3, and 5 years industry experience.
- Other info: Work collaboratively with teams and enjoy diverse auditing experiences.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 ÂŁ per year.
At Intertek, we are seeking experienced Food Safety Auditors and Lead Auditors to support the Supplier Assurance Program of a major UK & international grocery retailer. In this subcontractor role, you will perform 2nd party audits on the retailer’s suppliers, ensuring compliance with the retailer’s food safety standards, HACCP principles, and UK/EU regulatory requirements.
Your mission
- Conduct 2nd party food safety audits of the retailer’s suppliers, as scheduled and coordinated by Intertek, following established audit frameworks and protocols.
- Evaluate supplier compliance against the retailer’s Food Safety Standards, HACCP principles, legal regulations, and supplier-specific requirements.
- Identify and document potential food safety risks, non-conformities, and areas for corrective improvement.
- Prepare detailed, clear, and actionable audit reports for client and Intertek review, including evidence such as photographs and records.
- Work collaboratively with Intertek audit management and the retailer’s Supplier Assurance teams to support follow-up corrective actions and supplier continuous improvement.
- Maintain confidentiality and neutrality while adhering to client and Intertek guidelines for 2nd party auditing.
- Ensure auditing activities conform to health & safety policies and scheduling requirements.
- Manage audit schedules effectively and travel as needed within the assigned geographic scope.
What we are looking for
- Degree or relevant experience in a food-related or bioscience discipline, or equivalent higher education plus practical experience.
- VAT number and willingness to work on a freelance basis.
- Minimum 5 years post-qualification experience in the food industry.
- HACCP qualified to a minimum of Level 3.
- Experience auditing across three or more food categories.
- Certified food safety auditor credentials and supplier auditing experience preferred.
- Proven track record conducting 2nd party or supplier audits, ideally within retail food supply chains.
- Strong knowledge of HACCP, food safety legislation (UK/EU), and retailer-specific food safety requirements.
- Excellent report writing, communication, and stakeholder engagement skills.
- Proficient with digital audit reporting tools and remote auditing technologies.
- Desirable: Lead Auditor qualification (IRCA or equivalent).
Reporting & contract
- Reports directly to Intertek audit coordination teams with a dashed reporting line to the retailer’s Food Safety Compliance function.
- Subcontractor role with flexible hours based on audit volume and scheduling managed via Intertek.
- Represent the client’s values and standards professionally while working through Intertek’s auditing platform.
What we offer
- Opportunity to work with a leading grocery retailer, supporting supplier food safety excellence.
- Work within a recognized auditing framework via Intertek, benefiting from established systems and support.
- Flexible subcontracting with exposure to diverse supplier operations across the retailer’s supply chain.
- Access to Intertek and client resources, guidance, and training related to auditing and food safety standards.
If you’re passionate about food safety, auditing, and driving supplier excellence, apply now to join our supplier assurance network.
Food Safety Auditors & Lead Auditors (Freelance) employer: Intertek
Contact Detail:
Intertek Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Food Safety Auditors & Lead Auditors (Freelance)
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the food safety and auditing sectors. Attend industry events or webinars to meet potential employers and showcase your expertise. Remember, it’s all about who you know!
✨Tip Number 2
Nail that interview! Prepare by researching the company and their specific food safety standards. Be ready to discuss your past experiences and how they relate to the role. Show them you’re not just qualified, but passionate about food safety.
✨Tip Number 3
Follow up after interviews! A quick thank-you email can go a long way. It shows your enthusiasm for the role and keeps you fresh in their minds. Plus, it’s a great chance to reiterate why you’re the perfect fit.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! We’ve got loads of opportunities waiting for you. Plus, applying directly helps us keep track of your application and gives you a better chance to shine in front of the right people.
We think you need these skills to ace Food Safety Auditors & Lead Auditors (Freelance)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your relevant experience in food safety and auditing. We want to see how your skills align with the role, so don’t hold back on showcasing your qualifications!
Show Off Your Experience: When detailing your work history, focus on your auditing experience, especially in the food industry. We love seeing a proven track record, so mention any specific audits you've conducted and the outcomes achieved.
Be Clear and Concise: In your application, clarity is key! Use straightforward language and structure your thoughts logically. We appreciate well-organised applications that are easy to read and understand.
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. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at Intertek
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of HACCP principles and UK/EU food safety legislation. Familiarise yourself with the specific food safety standards of the retailer you'll be auditing for, as this will show that you're serious about the role.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare to discuss your previous auditing experiences in detail. Highlight any specific food categories you've audited and share examples of how you've identified risks or non-conformities in past roles. This will demonstrate your expertise and ability to handle the responsibilities of the job.
✨Be Ready to Write Reports
Since report writing is a key part of the role, practice summarising complex information clearly and concisely. Bring along samples of your previous audit reports if possible, as this can give the interviewers a tangible sense of your skills.
✨Engage with the Interviewers
Don’t just wait for questions; engage with the interviewers by asking insightful questions about their auditing processes and challenges. This shows your interest in the role and helps you assess if the company culture aligns with your values.