Lead Quality Assurance Technician

Leprino Foods is looking for a passionate and experienced Lead Quality Assurance Technician to join our dynamic Quality Department at our Magheralin facility.

In this key role, you will provide expert support across a range of quality assurance activities, including managing product quality and safety investigations, maintaining compliance documentation, coordinating audits, and driving continuous improvement initiatives. Your work will be essential in upholding product integrity, meeting regulatory standards, and strengthening our food safety culture.

Why Leprino?

Leprino is the worlds largest Mozzarella producer, and you will have the chance to be part of a global team of individuals passionate about producing and delivering high-quality products that help feed and nourish families around the world. Our success is built on the dedication of our incredible employees, and we believe in sharing that success with you. Hiring great people who are in it for the long run is our goal! Your impact will be noticed and appreciated, as you seek to further our company, our customers, and one another.

What we can offer you

• Competitive Salary & Annual Bonus Reflective of your experience and contributions.
• Generous Annual Leave Enhanced holiday entitlement
• Pension Contributions Up to 10% employer contributions.
• Health & Wellness Access to private health cash plans, mental health support, and wellness initiatives.
• Career Development Ongoing training, certifications, and advancement opportunities.
• Recognition Programs Celebrating your achievements and milestones.
• Inclusive Culture A diverse, supportive environment where your voice is valued.

Hours of work:

• 40 hours per week (9am 5pm) some flexibility may be required

Salary:

• £43,000 per annum

What you will be doing:

• Ensure Health & Safety Compliance by following SOPs, reporting hazards, and participating in safety audits and risk assessments.
• Maintain Clear Communication across departments, escalating food safety and quality issues, and contributing to daily briefings and KPI reviews.
• Lead Quality Investigations into product complaints and safety incidents, conducting root cause analysis and implementing corrective actions.
• Manage Internal Audits by maintaining schedules, completing audits, reviewing findings, and supporting external audit preparation.
• Oversee Quality Systems including traceability, document control, label accuracy, and functionality testing, ensuring compliance and readiness.
• Support Continuous Improvement through data analysis, reporting, and participation in site-wide initiatives and NPD trials.
• Promote Environmental Responsibilityby managing waste disposal, reporting potential breaches, and supporting remedial actions.

Essential Criteria:

• HND or equivalent qualification in Food Science or a related technical discipline
• Minimum Grade C in English and Maths at GCSE/OLevel (or equivalent)
• Strong working knowledge of Microsoft Office, particularly Word and Excel
• Minimum of 2 years relevant technical or quality experience in a manufacturing environment
• Demonstrated experience implementing BRC standards and driving continuous improvement
• Proven ability to support and implement quality assurance systems
• Sound understanding of Good Manufacturing Practice, laboratory procedures, and Health & Safety in the workplace
• Excellent IT, communication, and interpersonal skills
• High attention to detail, accuracy, and commitment to quality
• Strong organisational and planning skills with the ability to prioritise and work under pressure
• Effective problem-solving skills and a proactive, hands-on approach
• Flexible, self-motivated, and team-oriented with a positive attitude towards change
• Willingness to work Monday to Friday, 9am5pm, with flexibility to cover or temporarily move to shifts when required

Desirable Criteria:

• Formal qualification or accredited training in HACCP, Auditing, or COSHH
• Experience investigating customer complaints and supporting project work
• Relevant experience in food or dairy manufacturing and production environments
• Familiarity with SAP systems used in food manufacturing

Please note: The selection panel reserves the right to enhance the criteria to support the shortlisting process.

If you are interested in applying for this role,

Please submit your CV by Friday 17th October 2025 on NI Jobs

Leprino Foods is an Equal Opportunity Employer.