The Quality Control Officer will oversee all aspects of laboratory quality assurance, ensuring compliance with ISO/IEC 17025:2018 and NATA standards. This role involves managing quality control procedures, performing microbiological and chemical analyses, and supporting the laboratory’s contribution to export market compliance.

The successful candidate will play a critical role in ensuring laboratory competency and maintaining accreditation while collaborating with internal teams and external regulatory bodies.

Quality Control and Assurance:

Implement and monitor laboratory quality control procedures.
Verify daily controls, media, and cultures used in testing.
Investigate and report deviations, errors, and unusual results.

Testing and Verification:

Conduct microbiological tests for E. coli, Salmonella, and Total Plate Count using approved methods (e.g., AOAC methods).
Perform environmental water testing and verify proficiency in calibration and testing protocols.

Compliance and Accreditation:

Ensure laboratory operations meet ISO/IEC 17025:2018 standards.
Participate in internal audits and proficiency testing programs.

Training and Oversight:

Provide and sign off training for laboratory staff.
Act as a step-in Laboratory Manager when required, managing laboratory operations and reporting.

Documentation and Reporting:

Prepare NATA-accredited reports, ensuring data accuracy.
Maintain laboratory records to meet regulatory and operational standards.

Sampling and Analysis:

Oversee the collection and analysis of samples, including meat, water, hygiene swabs, and environmental samples.
Ensure compliance with export market requirements, particularly for export-registered abattoirs.
Certificate IV in Laboratory Techniques or higher qualification in microbiology, food science, or related field.