Key Responsibilities:
Quality Control and Testing:
Conduct comprehensive chemical analyses on raw materials, in-process samples, and finished products, including vegetable cooking oils, soaps, baker’s fats, and industrial plastics.
Monitor and verify that all products meet quality specifications, industry standards, and regulatory requirements.
Identify any deviations in product quality and recommend corrective actions to minimize defects and ensure consistency.
Manage the calibration and maintenance of laboratory instruments to ensure accurate and reliable results.
Research and Development (R&D):
Collaborate with R&D teams to develop new product formulations, improve existing ones, and optimize refining processes.
Conduct stability studies to assess the shelf-life and performance of products under different environmental conditions.
Develop and implement laboratory tests to support product innovation, such as fortification and new ingredient trials.
Assist in the development of prototypes for new products and guide their transition from concept to production.
Safety, Compliance, and Regulatory Standards:
Ensure that all laboratory activities comply with local and international safety, environmental, and health regulations.
Monitor the handling, storage, and disposal of chemicals used in the production process, following best practices for chemical safety.
Prepare and maintain accurate records of chemical handling and disposal as per regulatory guidelines.
Ensure that all products meet food safety standards and certifications, such as
HACCP, ISO, and other relevant regulatory frameworks.
Documentation and Reporting:
Maintain detailed records of all laboratory tests, analysis reports, and quality
control procedures.
Prepare periodic reports on testing outcomes, quality metrics, and continuous improvement initiatives for the Deputy Quality Controller and senior management.
Ensure proper documentation and traceability for audits, compliance checks, and certifications.
Document any quality issues, non-conformances, and corrective actions taken to
resolve them.
Collaboration and Team Support:
Work closely with production teams to ensure seamless communication and implementation of quality standards in all aspects of production.
Provide technical support to the production team in identifying and troubleshooting
quality-related issues during manufacturing.
Collaborate with the Quality Control and Production departments to develop and
implement corrective and preventive actions (CAPA) to address quality issues.
Continuous Improvement:
Identify opportunities to improve production processes, reduce waste, and enhance
efficiency through process optimization.
Participate in the analysis of customer feedback and product performance to
identify areas for improvement.
Stay informed about industry advancements, new testing methods, and emerging
technologies to maintain cutting-edge knowledge in the field.
Develop and implement new testing methods, where applicable, to further enhance
the quality assurance process.
Training and Mentoring:
Provide training to junior laboratory staff on quality control procedures, laboratory
techniques, and safety protocols.
Assist in the development of training materials and standard operating procedures
(SOPs) for laboratory operations.
Ensure the team remains updated on industry trends and quality control
advancements.
Inventory Management and Resource Planning:
Manage inventory of laboratory supplies and reagents, ensuring they are adequately
stocked and ordered in a timely manner.
Oversee the proper storage and usage of laboratory chemicals and materials in
accordance with safety standards.
Coordinate with the procurement team to ensure the timely availability of necessary
materials for testing.
Qualifications and Requirements:
• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.
• Bachelor’s Degree in Food Science or Food Technology (Specialized):
In certain cases, particularly in food production industries (like edible oils, soap, or other
consumables), a Bachelor’s degree in Food Science or Technology may be preferred.
This provides specialized knowledge on food safety, nutrition, and quality control, relevant
to the food production and processing sector.
• Experience:
Minimum of 3 years of experience in a similar role, preferably in the edible oil,
food manufacturing, or chemical production industry.
Proven experience in conducting chemical analyses, quality control, and product
development.
• Skills:
Strong understanding of analytical chemistry, laboratory equipment, and
quality control methodologies.
Expertise in conducting tests for food safety, oil refining, and product
consistency.
Knowledge of industry standards, such as HACCP, ISO, FSSC 22000, or other
relevant certifications.
Proficiency in using laboratory management software and equipment.
Excellent attention to detail, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities.
Strong communication and report-writing skills, with the ability to communicate
complex technical information clearly.
Additional Qualifications:
Experience with food fortification and R&D in edible oil is highly preferred.
Understanding of environmental health and safety standards in a refinery setting
is advantageous.