QUALITY ASSURANCE ASSISTANT (Location: Nairobi and Nakuru)

JOB PURPOSE

Ensuring that products meet the highest quality standards through a well-designed process inspection / Process Control Program.

KEY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Sample, inspect, and analyze raw materials, ingredients, packaging materials, and finished products—including those from co-packers—to ensure they meet company specifications and regulatory requirements through proper grading, aflatoxin analysis, and standardized sampling protocols.
• Monitor the production, milling, and packing processes in collaboration with production teams to ensure consistent product quality and compliance with established specifications.
• Handle and dispose of nonconforming materials in accordance with company procedures, ensuring traceability and proper documentation.
• Submit samples to the Central Support Office (CSO) and external laboratories as per sampling protocols and maintain accurate records for all raw materials, packaging materials, ingredients, finished products, and in-process checks within the Quality Assurance & Analysis (QAA) scope.
• Prepare and submit weekly and monthly quality reports to management for review and action.
• Maintain and calibrate laboratory equipment regularly to ensure accuracy and reliability of test results.
• Participate in root cause analyses for nonconformities and contribute to the implementation of corrective and preventive actions (CAPA).
• Conduct daily inspections and monitoring of utility provisions and plant hygiene, including production deep cleaning, product changeovers, and fumigation processes.
• Handle market returns, investigate customer complaints, analyze related samples, and provide technical support as required.
• Ensure compliance with Food Safety Management System (FSMS) standards such as ISO 22000, Kenchic, Aviagen, Sidai, and other customer-specific standards.
• Actively participate in internal audits (ISO 22000, GMP, co-packer, and customer food safety audits), distributor outlet GMP audits, and supplier audits.
• Monitor food safety controls including Critical Control Points (CCPs), Operational Prerequisite Programs (OPRPs), and Prerequisite Programs (PRPs), addressing any identified gaps in collaboration with process owners.
• Champion and promote food safety culture in the plant in coordination with Food Safety Team Members.
• Monitor quality of stored grain and support the certification process for export products.
• Deliver excellent customer service by identifying and communicating quality expectations and building strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders.
• Perform any other duties as assigned to support quality assurance, food safety, and customer satisfaction.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND EXPERIENCE REQUIRED

• Bachelor’s degree in Food Science, Analytical Chemistry, Microbiology, Biochemistry or related field.
• Knowledge in operation of analytical instruments.
• Two years’ experience in a manufacturing company.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and creative thinking abilities.
• Computer literate.
• Knowledge of ISO 17025, ISO 22000, HACCP, ISO 9001 is preferred.

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS

Candidates meeting the above requirements are invited to apply by submitting applications with updated CVs through: https://www.brightermonday.co.ke

Closing date for applications: 30th April 2025

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.