About Company
Lona Citrus is a leading South African exporter of premium citrus fruits to markets worldwide. With a rich history spanning several decades, we are deeply committed to delivering exceptional quality produce while fostering sustainable agricultural practices. Our operations in the Eastern Cape are central to our success, working closely with a network of dedicated growers to ensure our fruit meets the highest international standards. We believe that the integrity of our products begins at the farm gate, and we invest in robust quality assurance processes and skilled professionals to maintain our reputation for excellence and reliability. Joining Lona Citrus means becoming part of a team that values innovation, sustainability, and unparalleled product quality, contributing to the agricultural sector’s growth and global reach.
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Job Description
We are seeking a highly motivated and meticulous Remote Quality Control Inspector to join our dynamic team, focusing on agri-products within the Fort Beaufort region of the Eastern Cape. This critical remote role is designed for a self-starter who can independently manage quality assurance processes across various supplier farms and packing facilities. While your base will be remote, this position requires frequent travel to different sites within the designated area for hands-on inspections, audits, and crucial supplier engagement. You will be instrumental in upholding Lona Citrus’s stringent quality standards, ensuring that all produce complies with national and international food safety regulations and customer specifications from cultivation through to initial packing stages.
As our Remote Quality Control Inspector, you will be the eyes and ears on the ground, proactively identifying potential quality issues, implementing effective corrective actions, and providing invaluable feedback to both our internal teams and our valued growers. You will play a pivotal role in safeguarding the reputation of Lona Citrus’s products, ensuring only the finest produce makes its way to our global customers. This position offers significant autonomy and the opportunity to make a tangible impact on the quality and integrity of South African agricultural exports. If you are passionate about agricultural quality, possess an acute attention to detail, and thrive in an autonomous yet collaborative environment, we encourage you to apply. This role demands a strong understanding of agricultural practices, food safety protocols, and the ability to build strong working relationships with diverse stakeholders.
Key Responsibilities
- Conduct regular on-site quality inspections of agri-products at various farms and packing facilities within the Fort Beaufort region, ensuring adherence to Lona Citrus's exacting standards.
- Verify compliance with international food safety standards (e.g., GlobalGAP, HACCP, BRC), phytosanitary requirements, and customer-specific specifications.
- Perform visual inspections, systematic sampling, and basic testing of produce for defects, ripeness, size, colour, and overall quality attributes according to established protocols.
- Identify and meticulously document non-conformances, quality issues, and potential risks, initiating and tracking corrective and preventive actions with suppliers.
- Prepare detailed and accurate inspection reports, audit findings, and quality trend analyses for management review and constructive supplier feedback.
- Provide practical training and guidance to farm staff and packing teams on best practices for quality control, food safety, and efficient post-harvest handling.
- Collaborate closely with growers and suppliers to identify root causes of quality challenges and implement continuous improvement initiatives for product quality.
- Monitor post-harvest handling, cold chain management, storage conditions, and initial packing processes to prevent deterioration and maintain optimal product integrity.
- Stay updated on industry trends, new regulations, and evolving quality assurance methodologies relevant to citrus and other agri-products.
- Maintain accurate and organized records of all inspections, audits, communications with suppliers, and quality data for traceability and analysis.
Required Skills
- National Diploma or Degree in Agriculture, Food Technology, or a closely related scientific field.
- Minimum of 3 years of progressive experience in quality control or assurance, preferably within the fresh produce or broader agricultural sector.
- In-depth working knowledge of international food safety standards and certification schemes (e.g., GlobalGAP, HACCP).
- Proven ability to conduct thorough inspections, identify subtle quality defects, and implement effective solutions.
- Excellent observational skills, meticulous attention to detail, and a commitment to precision.
- Strong verbal and written communication and interpersonal skills for effective supplier and internal team interaction.
- Proficiency in generating comprehensive reports and using standard office software (MS Office Suite, especially Excel for data analysis).
- Valid South African driver's license and access to reliable personal transport for extensive regional travel.
- Demonstrated ability to work independently, manage time effectively, and prioritize tasks in a dynamic remote work environment.
Preferred Qualifications
- Auditor certification in GlobalGAP, HACCP, BRCGS, or other relevant food safety standards.
- Specialized experience with citrus fruit quality assessment, including defects, diseases, and export requirements.
- Proficiency in an additional South African language (e.g., Xhosa or Afrikaans), beneficial for communication with local growers.
- Knowledge of common pest and disease identification relevant to Eastern Cape agricultural crops.
- Familiarity with quality management systems (QMS) software or platforms.
- Experience in training or mentoring junior staff on quality control procedures.
Perks & Benefits
- Competitive salary package that rewards expertise and dedication.
- Flexibility of a remote working environment, empowering work-life balance.
- Comprehensive travel allowance and reimbursement for all work-related site visits.
- Exceptional opportunities for professional development, ongoing training, and continuous learning within a leading agricultural company.
- The chance to make a significant contribution to a reputable and growing agricultural exporter with a global footprint.
- Robust health and retirement benefits tailored to ensure your well-being and future security.
- A supportive team culture and direct access to industry experts and cutting-edge agricultural practices.
- Company-provided laptop and mobile phone for seamless remote operation.
How to Apply
Interested candidates are encouraged to click on the application link below to submit their comprehensive CV and a detailed cover letter. Your cover letter should articulate your relevant experience, highlight your passion for agricultural quality, and explain why you are an ideal fit for this remote role within the Eastern Cape. Please ensure your application clearly demonstrates your alignment with the required skills and responsibilities. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, and we encourage early submissions.
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