Quality Sampling and Testing Technician

Company: Devenish Nutrition Ltd
Apply for the Quality Sampling and Testing Technician
Location: Belfast
Job Description:

Key Responsibilities:

Sample Preparation

  • Collect samples for analysis (internal & external) on a weekly and monthly basis as per the Testing schedule
  • Use Production Schedule/generated reports to identify suitable products for analysis.
  • Swabbing various areas within production, for microbiological analysis as per the Testing schedule
  • Prepare sample bags for production personnel when Mixer Efficiency / Carry Over samples are required.
  • Arrange transfer of samples to laboratories
  • All samples to be inputted in a timely manner into the QC database (Samples include internal or from Nutritionists and/or Devenish customers). For traceability all samples to be clearly identified (with batch details where appropriate)
  • Book samples into preferred laboratory, providing expected levels whenever possible.

XRF testing

  • Use Production Schedule/generated reports to identify suitable products for analysis.
  • Conduct XRF testing on RM & Premix production, for all sites (Belfast, Widnes, Moynalty and A-One)
  • Record results for review against expected levels
  • Generate reports to identify and highlight trends.
  • Highlight any issues in a timely manner.
  • Maintain grinding, testing equipment and lab environment in a hygienic state

Non-routine sample analysis

  • Process non routine samples, such as customer samples and queries as and when they come in.
  • Provide updates on non-routine samples including when results can be expected, and report results back when received.
  • Support operational controls by conducting RM/FG checks (particle size, flowability, density, scorched particles etc)

Raw Material Sample & Checks- Raw Material Intake (Bulk & Packaged materials)

  • Incoming bulk raw material inspection, sampling & retention. Ensure verification of trailer last three loads & haulier scheme ID. Start bins for intake and verify product received into correct bin.
  • Raw Material (packaged) sampling.
  • Testing of raw materials
  • Inspection, record keeping and retention of raw material samples (Packaged & Bulk)
  • Non- Conforming product / Customer complaints
  • Extra sampling of non-conforming products for further testing.
  • Labelling non-conforming product Hold
  • Communicateany issues regarding raw materials, finished products or bulk raw materials.
  • Assist with complaint investigations, when required

Finished product Sample Checks.

  • Inspection, storage, retention and disposal of retained samples, as per agreed schedule with other QC team members.
  • Internal auditing conduct monthly Hygiene/Housekeeping inspections (Belfast production and storage facilities) and report findings.
  • Prepare Certificates of Analysis / Conformance when required.
  • To accompany DAERA feed inspector during sampling visits when required.
  • Order lab consumables when required.
  • Process invoices for payment on ERP system for lab consumables and external testing, when required.
  • Training new personnel in Quality testing procedures, when required.
  • Provide cover for QC Supervisor/Shift Quality Support when required.

NIR testing (Cover for QC supervisor / Shift Quality Support)

  • Conduct NIR testing on Incoming Bulk cereals.
    • Enter results on IngotStat for review.
    • Highlight any issues in a timely manner.
  • Conduct NIR testing on Creep & Matan production.
  • Record results on IngotStat for review.
  • Highlight any issues in a timely manner.

  • Take Health, Safety and Environmental ownership of yourself, others & activities within your areas of responsibility and raising all HSE concerns you become aware of, outside your areas of responsibility, with relevant managers.

  • Any other duties as reasonably required.

Experience & Qualifications

Essential

  • Minimum 1 years experience within a similar role or environment
  • GCSE Maths and English Grade C or aboveWorking knowledge of NAV/ERP
  • Working knowledge of feed testing techniques

Desirable

  • Degree in relevant or similar field

Skills/Knowledge

  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills with the ability to communicate effectively across all levels.
  • Self-motivated
  • Excellent organisational and time management skills, with the ability to prioritise effectively and work under pressure
  • Practical and logical approach to problem-solving with good attention to detail
  • Ability to maintain strict confidentiality with respect to data and information
  • Strong work ethic with the ability to show initiative, work on their own and as part of a team
  • Strong interpersonal skills
  • Ability to build strong working relationships with internal and external stakeholders.

Attributes & Requirements

  • Flexible and adaptable
  • Good attendance & timekeeping
  • Full driving license & access to car
  • Prepared to travel to various sites (if required)
  • Based on site (Belfast)

Skills:Quality Control & Laboratory Testing Attention to Detail and Traceability Data Analysis and Reporting Compliance, Auditing and Feed Safety Standards Communication and Problem Solving

Benefits:Group Life Assurance Pension Fund Paid Holidays Training & Development Opportunities Refer a friend scheme Medicash Health Cash Plan and Employee Assistant

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Posted: November 3rd, 2026