Técnico de Alimentos

Organizational Context

The World Food Programme (WFP) is the world's largest humanitarian organization, dedicated to saving lives in emergencies and building pathways to peace and prosperity through food assistance. WFP operates in diverse and challenging environments, ensuring that effective humanitarian aid reaches millions globally. The organization values integrity, collaboration, commitment, humanity, and inclusion, fostering a skilled, high-performing, and inclusive workforce.

Job Purpose

The Food Technologist will support the Country Office's operations by focusing on food technology and safety interventions within various projects and programs. This role is crucial for ensuring the quality and safety of food assistance, from sourcing to distribution, thereby safeguarding beneficiary health and maintaining the integrity of WFP's supply chain. The Food Technologist will be responsible for collecting and analyzing data, assessing risks, and preparing relevant information to support food safety and quality initiatives. This position requires close collaboration with Supply Chain and Programme units to integrate food quality and safety standards throughout the program design and implementation phases, contributing to the overall effectiveness of WFP's operations in Nicaragua.

Responsibilities

The role involves supporting the World Food Programme (WFP) in ensuring the quality and safety of food supplies. Key responsibilities include assisting in the data collection and documentation for registering new food suppliers, particularly smallholder farmer cooperatives. The position requires developing, gathering, and analyzing technical data, such as laboratory results and specifications, to contribute to reports on food quality and safety across WFP operations. A significant aspect is establishing risk-based control measures and providing evidence-based recommendations to minimize food loss and address quality/safety issues. In the event of food safety incidents, the role supports investigations, documents lessons learned, and participates in incident management committees. The position also contributes to the development and implementation of food quality protocols, ensuring alignment with WFP's procurement and supply chain strategies. This includes verifying that procured food meets WFP specifications and that inspection companies adhere to requirements. Furthermore, the role supports the execution of policies for local and regional food procurement, focusing on smallholder producers, and aids in developing capacity-building tools for suppliers. It also involves supporting various food assistance programs through quality assurance, audits, and strengthening the capabilities of suppliers, WFP staff, and partners. Maintaining awareness of advancements in food safety and quality research is crucial for incorporating best practices into the supply chain and ensuring rapid response during emergencies.

Work Experience

Requires at least 6 years of progressive experience in food quality assurance, including management/supervisory roles. Must have professional training and practical experience in implementing advanced quality and food safety management systems.

Skills

Food Quality Assurance, Food Safety, Data Analysis, Risk Management, Supplier Vetting, Auditing, Report Writing, Training Development, Supply Chain Management, Emergency Preparedness, Problem-Solving, Communication, Collaboration, Interpersonal Skills, Adaptability

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