Kepak is a leading food company with over 15 manufacturing sites and over 5,000 employees across Ireland and the UK, with a turnover of €1.75 billion. The Group operates across three divisions: the Foods Division, Meat Division UK, and Meat Division Ireland. Guided by our values—Responsibility, Ambition, Passion for Food, and Teamwork—we are committed to operating as a successful, sustainable, future-ready business that is a great place to work. We supply fresh and value-added meat-based products to retail and foodservice through private label and our own brands, including Rustlers, Big Al's and John Stone.
We have an exciting opportunity for a Quality Assurance Technician to join our team in McCarren Meats in Cavan. This is an excellent position for a Food Science individual or someone with Food Manufacturing experience who is looking to grow their career within a very supportive environment. McCarren Meats Unlimited Company is one the oldest traditional pig slaughtering, processing and bacon curing company in Ireland
This is a full time permanent position reporting to the Quality Manager.
This role has a rotating shift pattern: Monday - Friday 5am-2:30pm or 8am-5:30pm (occasional weekend work during peak season)
Key Responsibilities
- Conduct thorough product verification checks directly on the production line to ensure quality.
- Guarantee that every product meets the exact specifications set by our customers.
- Carry out routine traceability checks to maintain product integrity throughout the process.
- Investigate and report any instances of non-conforming materials within production areas promptly.
- Prepare detailed export pre-shipment reviews in compliance with DAFM requirements.
- Manage and maintain accurate product specification documentation.
- Perform comprehensive production inspections using the iAuditor platform.
- Lead GMP, Glass, and Hard Plastic audits within production zones, along with conducting internal audits to uphold standards.
- Collect and prepare samples efficiently for external laboratory analysis.
- Execute verification checks across the abattoir, boning hall, and bacon processing areas to ensure compliance.
Requirements
- Food Science/Food Technology qualification or related
- Previous experience working in a food environment would be a distinct advantage
- Written and spoken English fluency
- Advanced working knowledge of the Microsoft Office
- Flexibility as this role includes shift work
Note: As with all positions, due to the nature of our business, key responsibilities will evolve and change over time.
Benefits
What can we offer you?
- Company Pension
- Paid Maternity Leave
- Further Education support - You’ll have clear pathways for advancement, supported by continuous professional development and a range of learning opportunities
- Employee Discount Platform - All Kepak employees are entitled to access to the WrkIt platform, which offers significant discounts and cashback with hundreds of brands.
- Staff Discount for McCarren Direct
- Refer a Friend Scheme - Earn up to Get up to €500 for successfully referring a friend or family member to Kepak Group.
- Bike to Work Scheme - Purchase a bike and safety equipment through a salary sacrifice scheme which reduces your taxable income – meaning you pay less tax!
- Long Service Awards - We recognise, acknowledge and award the dedication and valuable contribution of long serving employees
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