R&D & QA Associate

• Support the research and development processes, coordinating product innovation projects, managing timelines, and ensuring that product development process is documented and all regulatory requirements are met before launching the product.
• Support Quality Assurance activities to maintain product consistency, hygiene, and compliance across production.
• Attend R&D meetings and document requirements for new product development and raw material testing.
• Coordinate with Sales for benchmarking samples and product references.
• Liaise with Purchasing for sourcing new raw materials and packaging, including obtaining specifications.
• Schedule and conduct production trials with Chefs.
• Ensure all recipes, processes, and observations are thoroughly documented.
• Coordinate with Management for product evaluation, feedback, and approvals.
• Initiate product sampling for Sales after approval.
• Prepare detailed reports on product trials and shelf-life studies.
• Send finalized recipes to Accounts for costing validation.
• Maintain proper records of trial batches and recipe revisions.
• Ensure retention of control samples with QA/QC.
• Track quantities, ingredient changes, and trial outcomes.
• Coordinate sourcing of new raw materials and packaging.
• Maintain database of approved raw material brands and suppliers.
• Ensure all materials meet specification and regulatory requirements.
• Support evaluation of alternative materials or supplier changes.
• Develop Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and product specifications.
• Ensure proper handover to QA/QC for Label development and product registration with regulatory authorities.
• Support Marketing with product photoshoots and launch requirements.
• Ensure compliance with FSSC, HACCP GMP and local municipality regulations.
• Conduct routine hygiene and sanitation audits.
• Ensure allergen control procedures are implemented and followed.
• Maintain QA records, batch documentation, and inspection reports.
• Ensure full traceability of raw materials and finished goods.
• Validate product specifications and consistency.
• Identify quality issues (e.g., under/overbaking, contamination risks).
• Investigate root causes and implement CAPA (Corrective and Preventive Actions).
• Coordinate with production teams for timely issue resolution.
• Assist in internal and external audits (FSSC, HACCP, municipality, customer audits).
• Ensure audit readiness and timely closure of non-conformities.
• Analyze trends (complaints, rejections, deviations).
• Recommend improvements for quality, efficiency, and waste reduction.
• Train staff on food safety, hygiene, and quality standards.
• Work closely with Production, Maintenance, QA/QC, and Sales teams.
• Stay updated on market trends, consumer preferences, and new technologies.
• Maintain effective coordination across departments.
• Ensure proper documentation and reporting at all stages.
• Adhere to all Policies and procedure set by the Management of the Company.
• Ensure communication systems are maintained to maximize operational efficiency and satisfaction between all departments.
• Demonstrate awareness of OH&S policies and procedures and ensure all procedures are conducted safely and within OH&S guidelines.
• Be familiar with property safety, first aid and fire and emergency procedures and operate equipment safely and sensibly.
• Initiate action to correct a hazardous situation and notify supervisors of potential dangers.

Desired Candidate Profile

We are seeking a skilled and reliable R&D /QC/QA Coordinator/specialist to join our Quality team. The ideal candidate will be responsible for the complete R&D process processes including documentation. To assist the R&D specialist in day-to-day operations. Bakery experience is a must. The ideal candidate should have a minimum of 3- 4 years of experience in RND.