Food Safety Intern

Java House, East Africa’s leading coffee chain and casual dining restaurant group, is seeking a dedicated and detail-oriented Food Safety Intern Officer to join their team in Nairobi. This role is crucial in maintaining the highest standards of food safety and quality across their operations.

About Java House:

Founded in 1999, Java House has grown from a single coffee shop in Nairobi to a beloved brand with outlets in 14 cities across Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda. Known for its gourmet coffee and American-style casual dining, Java House has expanded to include sister brands Planet Yoghurt and 360 Degrees Pizza. Their commitment to creating a “home away from home” for customers is matched only by their dedication to food safety and quality.

Position Overview:

The Food Safety Officer will play a vital role in ensuring compliance with local and international food safety standards across all Java House operations. This position requires a keen eye for detail, strong analytical skills, and the ability to work collaboratively with various departments.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Strategy and Planning:

•    – Collaborate with all departments to ensure compliance with local regulatory requirements and international food safety standards
•    – Work closely with the Repair & Maintenance team to implement preventive and corrective maintenance measures
•    – Identify and report operational deficiencies for appropriate action
•    – Implement internal and external audit schedules

2. Implementation:

•    – Conduct branch surveillance audits as scheduled, share reports, and follow up on corrective action plans
•    – Maintain and manage food safety documentation and records
•    – Conduct food safety and hygiene training for food handlers, including induction and refresher courses
•    – Monitor the effectiveness of pest control programs and report any issues
•    – Ensure proper sanitation procedures are implemented and monitored through an effective swabbing regime
•    – Carry out product traceability as necessary
•    – Issue Non-Conformance Reports (NCRs) for non-compliant products from internal and external suppliers
•    – Assist in investigating food safety-related complaints

3. Reporting and Evaluation:

•    – Ensure timely implementation of audits, training, and sampling schedules
•    – Promptly issue and follow up on all NCRs
•    – Report pest sightings to the pest control provider for immediate action
•    – Provide timely investigation and feedback on customer complaints
•    – Ensure implementation, maintenance, and sustenance of corrective actions
•    – Conduct timely investigations of failed samples and implement corrective actions

4. Budgeting:

•    – Understand the financial implications of decisions and their impact on overall department performance
•    – Contribute to annual budgeting by proposing capital and operational expenditures related to food safety

Requirements:

• – Bachelor’s degree in Food Science, Food Technology, or a related field
• – 0-1 years of experience in food safety or quality control (fresh graduates are encouraged to apply)
• – Strong understanding of food safety regulations and HACCP principles
• – Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills
• – Meticulous attention to detail
• – Strong time management and organizational abilities
• – Proficiency in Microsoft Office suite
• – Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• – Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• – Willingness to learn and adapt to new technologies and procedures

Why Join Java House?:

• – Be part of a growing, dynamic company that’s shaping East Africa’s coffee and casual dining culture
• – Opportunity for professional growth and development in the food and beverage industry
• – Work with a passionate team dedicated to delivering high-quality products and experiences
• – Contribute to maintaining the highest standards of food safety across multiple brands and countries

How to Apply:

Qualified candidates are invited to submit their resume, cover letter, and any relevant certifications. Please include “Food Safety Officer Application” in the subject line.

Java House is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity in its workforce. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, or disability status.

Join us in our mission to provide safe, high-quality food and beverages while creating memorable experiences for our customers across East Africa!