Technical Officer – Food Safety & Quality

About the role

Silver Fern Farms is looking for a motivated Technical Officer to support food safety, quality assurance, regulatory compliance and continuous improvement across its production site. You will work closely with production teams, quality staff and management to ensure products meet customer, regulatory and company standards.

Key responsibilities

• Monitor and verify food safety, quality and compliance systems.
• Conduct routine inspections, audits and product assessments.
• Assist in maintaining HACCP, Risk Management Programmes and quality management systems.
• Investigate quality issues, customer complaints and non‑conformances.
• Support microbiological and chemical sampling programmes.
• Prepare and maintain accurate technical and compliance records.
• Liaise with regulatory authorities, auditors and customers as required.
• Deliver technical training and support to operational staff.
• Participate in continuous improvement and process optimisation projects.
• Assist with environmental and animal welfare compliance requirements.

Required profile

• Previous experience in food manufacturing, meat processing or a primary industry environment (preferred).
• Audit qualification – internal auditor course to unit standards 8084 and 8086.
• Strong knowledge of HACCP principles and food safety systems.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• High attention to detail and accuracy.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Required skills

• HACCP implementation and monitoring.
• Internal auditor qualification (unit standards 8084, 8086).
• Proficiency with Microsoft Word.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Excel.
• Use of business information systems.

What we offer

• Discounted staff meat sales at the on‑site Butcher's Block.
• Ongoing learning and development opportunities within a leading New Zealand food company.
• Supportive team environment committed to safety and excellence.
• Opportunity to contribute to high‑quality products for domestic and international markets.