Optimize Recruitment is partnering with an established manufacturing business to recruit a Quality Assurance Associate to join its Quality team.

This is a hands-on QA position within a busy production environment, offering exposure across food safety, quality systems, auditing, documentation and continuous improvement. The successful candidate will work closely with operational and cross-functional teams to maintain high quality standards and support the continued development of the site's Quality Management System.

Key responsibilities

• Support the ongoing management and improvement of the site's Quality and Food Safety Management Systems.
• Carry out routine GMP audits, food safety inspections and CCP verification activities.
• Support the introduction and extension of existing quality systems across additional operational areas.
• Monitor compliance with internal procedures, quality requirements and FSSC 22000 standards.
• Work closely with Production and other departments to embed quality and food safety standards across day-to-day operations.
• Provide practical guidance to colleagues on quality procedures, documentation and compliance requirements.
• Support both internal audits and third-party certification audits.
• Maintain and administer controlled quality documentation, ensuring records and procedures remain accurate and current.
• Assist with the preparation and delivery of food safety and quality training for employees.
• Support the management, investigation and closure of corrective and preventive actions (CAPA).
• Keep informed of relevant regulatory and documentation requirements, supporting updates where required.
• Participate in cross-functional quality and improvement projects.

What We're Looking For

• Degree or equivalent qualification in Quality Assurance, Food Science or a related scientific discipline.
• Approximately 2 years' experience within Quality Assurance or Quality Control in the food industry.
• Working knowledge of GMP and Quality Management Systems.
• Familiarity with food safety standards and compliance requirements.
• Experience preparing, reviewing or maintaining procedures and controlled documentation.
• Strong attention to detail with a structured, process-focused approach.
• Good organisational skills and the ability to manage competing priorities and deadlines.
• Confident working both independently and as part of a cross-functional team.
• Comfortable providing guidance or training to colleagues at different levels.
• Good working knowledge of Microsoft Office, particularly Excel and document-based applications