Job
Description
Job Purpose: To lead the Quality Assurance and Quality Control functions across the pet food manufacturing process, ensuring all products comply with safety, nutritional, and regulatory standards, and maintain consistent quality and palatability. Key Responsibilities: Develop and implement robust quality systems across raw materials, in-process checks, and finished goods tailored to pet food products. Monitor quality parameters such as protein levels, moisture content, fat, and palatant application to ensure formulation accuracy. Ensure 100% compliance with FSSAI, AAFCO, ISO 22000, and other relevant pet food safety standards. Manage a team of quality executives and lab analysts for sample testing, documentation, and root cause analysis of deviations. Supervise hygienic practices, GMP (Good Manufacturing Practices), and HACCP implementation on the production floor. Conduct internal quality audits and assist in external audits by regulatory bodies or customers. Review and release product batches after quality clearance and certificate of analysis (COA) verification. Handle customer complaints related to product quality and ensure timely closure with CAPA documentation. Work closely with R&D and production teams for new product trials, shelf-life testing, and palatability improvements. Maintain all laboratory equipment and testing records in accordance with regulatory guidelines. Required Skills and Competencies: In-depth knowledge of food safety standards and pet food regulations (FSSAI, AAFCO, ISO, HACCP). Strong analytical skills in lab testing: moisture, protein, fat, fiber, ash content, etc. Experience in handling non-conformities, conducting RCA & CAPA. Familiarity with sensory evaluation and palatability testing in pet food. Strong leadership, documentation, and communication skills. Proficiency in MS Office and quality data reporting tools. Educational Qualification: M.Sc in Food Technology, Animal Nutrition, Veterinary Science, Microbiology, or related field. Experience: Experience in dry pet food (kibble), treats, or wet pet food preferred.
