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 IrelandThis 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.BenefitsWhat can we offer you? Company PensionPaid Maternity Leave Further Education support - You’ll have clear pathways for advancement, supported by continuous professional development and a range of learning opportunitiesStaff 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#IND
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
#IND
Kepak is one of Europe's leading food producers with 15 manufacturing plants across Ireland and the UK. Meat craft, trusted quality and excellent service are the pillars of our proud heritage. Sustainability and animal welfare keep us grounded in the presence of nature and our communities. Innovation and inspirational nutrition drive our business to develop and grow.
Kepak is one of Europe's leading food producers with 15 manufacturing plants across Ireland and the UK. Meat craft, trusted quality and excellent service are the pillars of our proud heritage. Sustainability and animal welfare keep us grounded in the presence of nature and our communities. Innovation and inspirational nutrition drive our business to develop and grow.
