QA Analyst (Microbiologist) at Nestle

Main Purpose

• Maintaining product quality by ensuring that all products produced at the factory level comply with quality requirements. Co-ordinates sensory sessions and release, rework, and final product in a timely manner such that on-time release targets are met. Maintain recording of ICPs and ensure that GLP is always adhered to.

A day in the life of Quality Assurance Analyst:
Sensory

• Ensure sensory best practice is adhered to during sensory sessions
• Ensure that the correct reference samples are available for use for all products
• Co-ordinate sensory sessions and release of FP on a daily basis and update attendance register daily
• Conduct ICPs for the main lab on a daily basis 
• Conducts spiking of FP panel weekly and update the spiking performance tracking spreadsheet
• Maintain selection of standard approval samples across all products
• Verify that condensate sample is analyzed swiftly and communicate out of norm to industrial services
• Verify that inline sensory is conducted for both cremora and noodles daily ensuring sensory best practice is adhered to.
• Assist in product quality investigations                                                                                                                                                                                                                     
• Assist in achieving Factory objectives through line verification in filling and pack                    

Microbiology (when required)

• Preparation of the sample, analysis and reporting of results stated turnaround time (Depending on product category) according to a strict work planning and GLP.
• Pathogen Monitoring – Take swabs in the factory and perform analysis as per sampling plan.
• Ensure that pathogen monitoring plan is up-to-date and complies to relevant standards.
• Analysis of samples: prepare required media. Perform required analysis of samples, reports results within allocated time frame.
• Communicate and participate in investigations for out of norm results.
• Verification of pathogen monitoring plan compliance and share gaps with FSS.
• Conduct weekly hygiene inspection in the plant and conduct plant release when required.
• Proficiency Testing:
• Participate in “P” tests- Mixed microbes (e.g. “L”, “S”).
• Maintenance and calibration:
• Maintains equipment (services) and arrange for defects/faulty equipment to be repaired. Maintain records of repairs/calibrations/analytical method control.

Product Re-evaluation

• Set up finished product samples for re-evaluation
• 2nd exam sampling in warehouse when required
• Assist in rework release 

General

• Compile sensory trial reports
• Prepare and evaluate industrial batch samples
• Preparation of retention samples for consumer complaints evaluations
• Labelling of retention samples and storing on shelves in sequence                                                                                                                                             
• Evaluate KQ samples at correct defined intervals

Sensory best practise / ICP

• Ensure sensory best practise is maintained in main labs
• Conduct daily calibration checks for the scales
• Verify coding in finished product
• Implement new methods when LI’s are updated
• Ensure sensory equipment and facilities are clean, tidy, and operational

What will make you successful?

• Bachelors’ Degree/Diploma in Analytical Chemistry/Chemistry/Food Technology/Biotechnology
• 1-2 Years’ experience in a lab environment and quality assurance
• Fulfill the roles and requirements of the micro, chemistry and sensory lab when required
• Experience in SAP & Excel