Tupande Dried Fruit Quality and Compliance Supervisor (Fixed-Term) at One Acre Fund

Responsibilities

Receiving


Inspect incoming fruits for quality, ripeness, pest damage, contamination, and compliance with raw material specifications.
Strengthen and implement improved sampling methods and plans.
Conduct random sampling and monitor: Brix levels, external/internal defects, and other rejection factors (e.g., undersized fruit).
Record intake quality data and supplier performance metrics and share feedback with the sourcing team.


Storage and Ripening Monitoring


Ensure proper storage and ripening conditions are maintained pre-processing.
Monitor and record ripening conditions per lot received to support production planning.
Conduct ripening assessments, including firmness checks and stage verification.
Flag deviations and recommend corrective actions.


Sorting, Peeling, Slicing and Preservation


Verify grading standards and reject thresholds.
Monitor peeling and slicing quality to ensure alignment with customer specifications.
Supervise preservation processes, ensuring correct dosing and tracking of preservatives.


Drying Operations


Monitor Critical Control Points (CCPs), including drying temperature, drying time, and moisture reduction curves.
Conduct moisture content and water activity testing.
Verify dryer loading practices and tray hygiene compliance.


Finished Product Testing


Test finished product against specifications, including moisture content, water activity, customer spec alignment, and organoleptic properties (colour, texture).
Approve or reject batches immediately after drying and again prior to packing.
Report findings and recommend corrective actions.
Ensure non-conforming batches is documented in line with FSSC/BRC and rework is completed within agreed timelines (<2 days from drying).


Storage Quality Monitoring


Monitor finished product storage conditions, including temperature, humidity, and pest control.
Conduct periodic shelf-life and stability checks.
Monitor oxidative changes, mould risk, and product degradation, and report any non-conformities.
Ensure the production team is maintaining FIFO/FEFO inventory compliance.


Laboratory Testing & Sampling Systems


Implement sampling plans for: Raw fruit, in-process product, finished goods
Manage all laboratory testing schedules and documentation.
Coordinate external lab testing where required (microbial, sulphur, pesticide residues, etc.)


Process Water, Wastewater & Effluent Monitoring


Monitor and track chlorine levels in fruit washing and conduct routine water testing (key parameters) to ensure compliance with safety and quality standards.
Ensure water used for equipment cleaning, tray washing, fruit washing, handwashing, and sanitation systems meets required food safety standards.


Food Safety Implementation (SHEQ & FSMS), Compliance and Certification


Implement all Safety, Health, Environment, and Quality (SHEQ) requirements during shifts.
Support execution of the Food Safety Management System (FSMS).
Participate in: Food safety meetings, HACCP reviews, internal audits, external certification audits.
Ensure compliance with: BRC Global Standards, FSSC 22000, ISO 22000, GMP & HACCP


Career Growth and Development

We have a strong culture of constant learning and we invest in developing our people. You'll have weekly check-ins with your manager, access to mentorship and training programs, and regular feedback on your performance. We hold career reviews every six months, and set aside time to discuss your aspirations and career goals. You'll have the opportunity to shape a growing organization and build a rewarding long-term career.

Qualifications

Across all roles, these are the general qualifications we look for. For this role specifically, you will have:


Bachelor's/Diploma/certificate in chemistry, food engineering or Production Engineering or equivalent qualifications from a recognised University/college.
3+ years working experience in Manufacturing companies in the quality department/ lab technician or supervisory position in the same position is an added advantage.
Knowledge and experience in the Food Safety Management System (e.g., HACCP BRC/FSSC), Environmental, and Occupational Health and Safety in the workplace
Strong verbal/ written communication skills can help you explain ways to improve processes to other people so they can achieve set quality standards.
Ability to work as part of a team