Quality Assurance Professional - Food Manufacturing
Location: Southampton
Contract Type: Full-Time | Competitive Salary + Benefits

Zest are working with a highly respected food manufacturer that are seeking a dedicated Quality Assurance Professional to join their technical team.

The Role:
You will be instrumental in ensuring all products are safe, legal, and manufactured to the highest quality standards. With a strong focus on continuous improvement, you will drive compliance, investigate non-conformance, and support both internal systems and customer requirements through a proactive quality culture.

Key Responsibilities Include:
Maintaining compliance with customer COPs, internal systems (HACCP, QMS), and all relevant legislation.

Conducting internal audits, investigations, and compliance gap analyses.

Supporting new product launches and ensuring all associated quality documentation is in place.

Participating in customer audits and assisting in the close-out of non-conformances.

Leading or supporting complaint reduction initiatives and ensuring KPI targets are met.

Inspecting raw materials, printed packaging, and finished goods to ensure standards are met.

Active member of the HACCP team, contributing to shelf-life evaluations, product trials, and taste panels.

Experience & Qualifications:
Proven experience in food manufacturing QA roles.

HACCP Level 2 (Level 3 desirable) and Food Safety Level 3.

Internal Audit qualification (essential).

Familiarity with industry platforms such as Muddy Boots, EQMS, Hamilton Grant, SAP.

Strong communication skills and a hands-on, detail-focused approach.

Why Join?
Be part of a progressive, quality-driven environment where your input truly matters.

Gain exposure to major retailers and high-profile product lines.

Opportunity to contribute to meaningful change and continuous improvement initiatives.

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