Quality Assurance Officer - Hex Berries

Worcester, South Africa Posted on 18/03/2026

The primary purpose of this role is to ensure optimum product quality and delivering on our brand promise by means of ensuring United Exports Quality standards are implemented and adhered to at farm level, through continuous and strict monitoring of processes.

• Ensure correct fruit quality/maturity is harvested into Class 1 buckets.
• Verify orchards are picked clean before teams move to next blocks.
• Enforce all harvest and hygiene protocols daily.
• Prevent bottlenecks and ensure correct weight checks (where applicable).
• Ensure no double handling of fruit.
• Confirm collection points are clean, shaded, and hazard free.
• Verify all harvest equipment is cleaned, stored correctly, and contaminant free.
• Ensure fruit is removed from the field within 1 hour of harvest.
• Report all non compliances immediately.

• Monitor cold store temperatures (3x daily) and ensure correct set points.
• Check fruit pulp temperatures meet specifications before truck loading.
• Maintain optimal cold chain integrity for each pallet.
• Prevent double handling and ensure waste fruit is separated from Class 1 fruit.
• Confirm cold rooms are clean and free from contamination risks.
• Ensure correct handling/storage of SO sheets and hygiene compliance.
• Report issues promptly to the cold store manager.

Oversee all QC processes in line with protocol:

• Farm Intake QC
• Rotbox QC
• Conduct spot checks on harvested fruit for field packing.
• Verify accuracy of shelf life and rotbox data.
• Report issues to the In Field Quality Manager and farm QC team immediately.
• Perform daily hygiene spot checks (hand washing stations, cleaning tools, etc.).
• Verify crate/bucket washing procedures and proper segregation of clean items.
• Ensure all hygiene equipment is fit for purpose and well maintained.
• Report deviations immediately to the cold store manager.

• Report all issues immediately to responsible parties.
• Submit daily feedback to Estate Manager, In Field Quality Manager, and Product Manager before close of business.
• Document all findings thoroughly, including photographic evidence of non conformances.

• Senior Certificate / Grade 12 / Matric.
• Relevant tertiary qualification (Degree/Diploma in Food Science, Food Technology, or related field).

• At least 1 year of experience in a similar role within the fruit industry.
• Experience in blueberries is highly advantageous.

• Proficient in MS Office Suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Outlook).

• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to build and maintain positive interpersonal relationships.
• Highly detail oriented and results driven.
• Confident and composed under pressure.
• Demonstrates tact, discretion, and sound judgement.
• Able to operate independently with minimal supervision.