Quality Assurance Technician

About this role

Kepak is a leading food company with over 15 manufacturing sites and over 5,000 employees across Ireland and the UK, with a turnover of €1.75 billion. The Group operates across three divisions: the Foods Division, Meat Division UK, and Meat Division Ireland. Guided by our values—Responsibility, Ambition, Passion for Food, and Teamwork—we are committed to operating as a successful, sustainable, future-ready business that is a great place to work.

We supply fresh and value-added meat-based products to retail and foodservice through private label and our own brands, including Rustlers, Big Al's and John Stone.

We have an exciting opportunity for a Quality Assurance Technician to join our team in McCarren Meats in Cavan. This is an excellent position for a Food Science individual or someone with Food Manufacturing experience who is looking to grow their career within a very supportive environment. McCarren Meats Unlimited Company is one the oldest traditional pig slaughtering, processing and bacon curing company in Ireland

This is a full time permanent position reporting to the Quality Manager.

This role has a rotating shift pattern: Monday

• Friday 5am-2:30pm or 8am-5:30pm (occasional weekend work during peak season)

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct thorough product verification checks directly on the production line to ensure quality.
• Guarantee that every product meets the exact specifications set by our customers.
• Carry out routine traceability checks to maintain product integrity throughout the process.
• Investigate and report any instances of non-conforming materials within production areas promptly.
• Prepare detailed export pre-shipment reviews in compliance with DAFM requirements.
• Manage and maintain accurate product specification documentation.
• Perform comprehensive production inspections using the iAuditor platform.
• Lead GMP, Glass, and Hard Plastic audits within production zones, along with conducting internal audits to uphold standards.
• Collect and prepare samples efficiently for external laboratory analysis.
• Execute verification checks across the abattoir, boning hall, and bacon processing areas to ensure compliance.

Requirements

• Food Science/Food Technology qualification or related
• Previous experience working in a food environment would be a distinct advantage
• Written and spoken English fluency
• Advanced working knowledge of the Microsoft Office
• Flexibility as this role includes shift work
• Note: As with all positions, due to the nature of our business, key responsibilities will evolve and change over time.

Benefits

What can we offer you?

• Company Pension
• Paid Maternity Leave
• Further Education support
• You’ll have clear pathways for advancement, supported by continuous professional development and a range of learning opportunities
• Staff Discount for McCarren Direct
• Refer a Friend Scheme
• Earn up to Get up to €500 for successfully referring a friend or family member to Kepak Group.
• Bike to Work Scheme
• Purchase a bike and safety equipment through a salary sacrifice scheme which reduces your taxable income – meaning you pay less tax!
• Long Service Awards
• We recognise, acknowledge and award the dedication and valuable contribution of long serving employees