Quality Control & Production Technologist, FBIC

Located in the heart of the Niagara region – just minutes from one of the world’s most well-known tourism destinations – Niagara College offers more than 130 innovative programs between our campuses in Welland and Niagara-on-the-Lake. Since opening its doors in 1967, Niagara College has grown to become a leader in education and training and one of the most enterprising colleges in Canada.

Applications are invited for the position of Quality Control & Production Technologist in the Food & Beverage Innovation Center (FBIC) within the Research & Innovation Division, located at the Daniel J. Patterson Campus. The starting hourly rate is $36.29 (Pay Band H - $36.29/hour to $42.13/hour) for a 35 hour work week. Additional hours may be required as necessary. This is a temporary Initiatives/Opportunities position as per Article 17.3.1 of the Support Staff Collective Agreement and is set to conclude in November, 2026.

Reporting to the Scientific Manager, the successful candidate will work collaboratively with industry partners, staff, faculty, researchers, students, and graduates on a variety of applied research projects and technical services. This role will provide technical and administrative support focused on the quality of the production process, adherence to standard processes, testing of product attributes and packing integrity, regulatory compliance, and facility sanitation. The incumbent will be actively involved in food and beverage product development and will support FBIC staff with identifying and securing materials, goods, and services from vendors in the supply chain. At times, the Quality Control & Production Technologist will act as a project or research lead, which includes training and guiding students and staff in FBIC activities.

Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

• Coordinates all aspects of ingredient sourcing, ordering, and inventory in compliance with FBIC SOPs and regulatory requirements – this includes raw materials through to final product for R&D and pilot plant activities.
• Participate in the creation, maintenance, and updates of standard operating procedures (SOPs).
• Assist with regular checks as per SOPs and educate on product safety and quality standards.
• Assist with mock audits and perform required HACCP checks to ensure safety of product and processes.
• Lead and perform data management, consistent collection, and record keeping supporting SOP and regulatory compliance.
• Monitor corrective actions for compliance and effectiveness, and initiate follow-up for completion.
• Coordinate and conduct chemical, gaseous, physical, and other relevant quality control tests on prototype, in-line, and finished products to ensure compliance.
• Participate in documenting procedures and establishing best practices to expand FBIC team capabilities.
• Plan and deliver hands-on execution of product development, shelf life, and other food and beverage science projects and services with FBIC staff.
• Monitor formulation development in-process to ensure quality specifications and parameters are being followed in accordance with requirements.
• Ensure samples, equipment, and any required materials and chemicals are handled properly to avoid contamination and injury.

Qualifications:

• Three (3) year diploma or degree in Culinary Arts; Food Science; Food Processing; Food & Beverage Quality Control/Assurance; Beverage Production; Beer, Wine, Distilling Production; Food Technology & Innovation programs or related field of study.
• Minimum of three (3) years of food and beverage experience in quality assurance/control and/or production/processing coordination.
• Hands-on product development for food and beverage industry clients will be considered an asset.
• Demonstrated communications skills relating to clients, suppliers, and internal team members.
• Excellent teamwork skills, able to work harmoniously with stakeholders in various positions.
• Proven ability to troubleshoot and respond to issues that occur in the F&B industry.
• Demonstrated ability to lead, guide, and coach team members.
• Proven ability to work to deadlines while managing multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment with shifting priorities.
• Skilled at planning tours and events and preparing team members.
• Ability to work standing for more than two hours at a time and to lift between 5-20kg on occasion.

If selected for an interview, candidates must present proof of education (original transcripts/credentials).

Note: Credentials obtained outside of Canada require an evaluation to determine the Canadian educational equivalence. This evaluation must support the educational requirements for the position as a condition of employment. For further information, visit: World Education Services http://www.wes.org/ca/.

While we thank all applicants, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

Niagara College is strongly committed to diversity and inclusion within its community. We offer an inclusive work environment and welcome applications from all qualified individuals who feel they can further enhance campus diversity and equity efforts.

If requested, accommodations will be made to support applicants with disabilities during the recruitment and selection process.