Technical Support - 6 Month Fixed Term Contract

Purpose of the Role:

To provide interim technical support to the Technical Department, ensuring effective management of microbiological KPI data, customer complaints and investigations, internal auditing activities, and preparation for external audits. The role will play a key part in supporting the Technical Manager and Technical Compliance Manager through a period of increased workload, including conducting detailed investigations and responding to customer enquiries and complaints

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Key Responsibilities:

Microbiological Data Review and Reporting

• Review strategy of microbiological KPI data
• Identify trends, anomalies, and areas of concern requiring investigation.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives through data analysis and trend reporting.

Technical Investigations

• Lead and coordinate the full investigation into microbiological trends and complaints, including:
• Data collection and analysis.
• Root causes, environmental and process review.
• Corrective and preventative action tracking.
• Report writing and management updates.
• Ensure investigations are completed in a timely and documented manner.
• Respond professionally to customer technical enquiries and complaints, prepare comprehensive responses and supporting documentation.
• Communicate findings and recommendations to the wider business.

Audit and Compliance Support

• Plan and conduct internal audits against company standards, HACCP requirements, and customer codes of practice.
• Document audit findings and verify corrective actions.
• Support preparation for customer, regulatory, and third-party audits.
• Assist with audit documentation reviews and evidence gathering.
• Monitor compliance with food safety and quality management systems.

Technical Department Support

• Provide day-to-day support to the Technical Manager and Technical Compliance Manager.
• Assist with urgent technical issues and requirements
• Support completion of corrective actions, investigations, and customer requests.
• Maintain accurate technical records and documentation.
• Assist with updating procedures and technical documentation where required.

Requirements:

Essential Skills and Experience

• Experience in a food manufacturing technical, quality, or compliance role.
• Knowledge of food safety management systems and HACCP principles.
• Experience conducting investigations and root cause analysis.
• Experience of internal auditing.
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret microbiological data.
• Excellent report-writing and communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office applications, particularly Excel.

Desirable Skills and Experience

• Experience investigating microbiological incidents, including Listeria.
• Knowledge of BRCGS Food Safety Standard.
• Previous experience responding to customer complaints and technical enquiries.
• Internal Auditor qualification.
• Experience within a high-care or high-risk food production environment.