At a Glance
- Tasks: Ensure food safety and quality standards through auditing and testing.
- Company: Join a passionate, fast-growing food solutions company with a focus on sustainability.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive benefits package and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Collaborative team culture with opportunities to travel within the UK and overseas.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on food safety and quality in a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: Degree in Food Science or related field; experience in quality assurance preferred.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
At Solina, our community of close to 5,000 people share a passion for food and live our entrepreneurial culture. We design customised savoury solutions for our clients operating in the food industry, food service, butchery and nutrition markets. With sustainability at the heart of our business model, we aim to produce food that is good in every sense of the word: delicious, nourishing, affordable, sustainable and convenient.
Solina is a fast-growing business, with around 50 production sites and R&D laboratories present in more than 19 countries mainly in Europe and North America. By constantly rethinking culinary solutions, we make food matter for people and the planet. If you're ready for a new adventure in a dynamic, expanding, passionate, international company, join us!
Please note this role does not meet the Home Office requirements for Skilled Worker visa sponsorship. Applicants must have existing authorisation to work in the UK.
Reporting to the Quality Assurance Manager, the Quality Assurance Specialist works within the Quality Team and is responsible for the auditing of Food Safety and Quality standards across all sites. The role involves:
- Ensuring product testing schedule is adhered to, recording and analysing results to identify trends, escalating any out of specification results and supporting with investigations.
- Ensuring environmental monitoring, allergen and water testing is carried out, investigating out of specs and supporting with investigations.
- Supporting external audits by preparing required documentation, carrying out and presenting traceability exercise.
- Ensuring compliance with industry regulations, company policies and standards through internal auditing of processes and procedures.
- Identifying quality and food safety issues and collaborating with relevant departments to implement corrective and preventative actions (CAPA).
- Communicating effectively with the operations team to address quality concerns.
- Providing training on Food Safety and Quality procedures as needed.
- Conducting environmental swabbing and trend results.
- Actively participating in site meetings and business quality projects.
Candidate Profile
- Ideally holds a degree or equivalent in Food Science, Microbiology or a related discipline.
- Experience working in the food industry in Quality assurance/control or technical role.
- Team worker.
- Open and honest.
- Organised and diligent.
- Able to travel within the UK and overseas.
- Current, valid driving license.
- Experience and knowledge of BRCGS and participating in audits.
- Auditing qualification and experience.
- HACCP and Food Safety Qualifications.
Benefits
Competitive benefits package.
Quality Assurance Specialist employer: Solina Group
At Solina, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, fostering a vibrant work culture that thrives on passion for food and sustainability. Our Mitcham location offers a dynamic environment where Quality Assurance Specialists can grow professionally while contributing to meaningful projects that impact both people and the planet. With a commitment to employee development and a competitive benefits package, joining our team means embarking on a rewarding career in a fast-growing international company.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Quality Assurance Specialist
✨Join Food Science Communities
Get involved in food science forums and communities, both online and offline. Platforms like LinkedIn Groups or Reddit can be goldmines for job leads and valuable insights. Plus, you’ll connect with other food enthusiasts who might even point you towards openings at companies like Solina Group.
✨Attend Industry Conferences and Workshops
Check out exhibitions and workshops in the food science sector. Events like the International Congress on Food Technology are not just knowledge hubs, but also great networking opportunities. You never know who you might bump into – perhaps a hiring manager from Solina Group!
✨Show Off Your Passion for Food Tech
Start a blog or social media channel showcasing innovative food science projects or trends. This not only showcases your expertise but also raises your visibility in the field. When you apply for a role at companies like Solina Group, they’ll see you’re proactive and truly passionate about food technology.
✨Leverage University Career Services
If you're fresh out of uni, make use of your career services! They often have exclusive job boards and connections with companies looking for graduates. Don't forget to mention your interest in roles like those at Solina Group, and they might have insider tips or referrals just for you!
We think you need these skills to ace Quality Assurance Specialist
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Relevant Projects:When applying for a role in food science and technology at Solina Group, make sure to highlight any relevant projects or research you've worked on. Whether it’s a dissertation, a lab experiment, or a product development idea, detail these experiences to demonstrate your hands-on skills in the field—employers love to see practical applications of your knowledge!
Highlight Technical Skills:In the food science and technology industry, technical skills are key. Be sure to list any specific skills you have related to food safety, quality control, or food processing technologies on your CV. Also, mention any software or analytical tools you’re proficient in, as this shows you're ready to hit the ground running at Solina Group.
Tailor Your Cover Letter:As this is a full-time position, your cover letter should convey not just why you want the job, but also how you fit into the company's vision. Talk about your passion for food science and how your background uniquely positions you to contribute to Solina Group. Make it personal and compelling!
Include Certifications:If you have any certifications related to food science, safety, or technology, be sure to mention them. These can really set you apart from other candidates! List them prominently on your CV and discuss how they relate to the role at Solina Group. It shows you're committed to your professional development.
How to prepare for a job interview at Solina Group
✨Know Your Lab Tech!
Given that you’re diving into food science and technology, brush up on the specific technologies and lab equipment mentioned in the job description. Familiarising yourself with tools like gas chromatography or texture analyzers will show that you’re serious about the technical side of things.
✨Show Off Your Project Experience
Prepare to discuss any relevant projects or research you've undertaken in food science. Whether it’s developing a new recipe, conducting taste tests, or analysing nutritional content, having tangible examples can really show off your expertise and passion for the field.
✨Emphasise Your Soft Skills
Don't underestimate the importance of teamwork and communication in food science roles. Be ready to highlight instances where you’ve effectively collaborated with others or communicated complex scientific ideas clearly. This can make a huge difference in landing that full-time gig!
✨Stay Up-to-Date with Industry Trends
Make sure you’re clued up about the latest trends in food science and technology — think sustainability, food safety, and innovative processing techniques. Discussing these topics during your interview can demonstrate your enthusiasm for the field and how you can contribute to Solina Group’s mission.
