Sampling Technician

About the role

We are looking for a detail-oriented and proactive Sampling Technician to join our Technical Department in Ossett. In this permanent, full-time position, you will play a key role in maintaining product quality and ensuring compliance with food safety standards by coordinating the sampling and stock release processes. You will support cross-functional teams and contribute to continuous improvement initiatives.

This is not a lab-based role. Instead, it focuses on the coordination of samples being sent to an external laboratory. While prior lab experience is not required, a basic understanding of microbiology or chemistry would be beneficial.

You will report directly to the Quality Manager.

About Kerry Dairy

Kerry Dairy Ireland is a vertically integrated farm-to-fork business with a very substantial consumer foods presence and a leading nutritional and dairy ingredients division, delivering high-quality dairy solutions with a focus on sustainability and innovation.

From partnering with local family farms to producing world-class dairy products, we ensure every step of our value chain reflects our commitment to excellence.

With over 50 years’ experience in milk processing, dairy and nutritional technology advancement, and product innovation, we are a key stakeholder in the global food industry and creators of a strong portfolio of market leading dairy brands including Cheestrings, Charleville and Coleraine Cheese, Dairygold, Golden Cow and our new SMUG range. Our from food, for food culture and deep-rooted connection to our 2,800 milk suppliers differentiates our business and offers captivating opportunities for our customers and consumers.

Our dairy comes from some of the world’s richest grazing land and is produced by a network of Irish family farms that have one of the lowest carbon footprints in the world. Through a combination of expertise, innovation, and sustainability, Kerry Dairy Ireland is proud to shape the future of dairy while meeting the diverse needs of our farmers, customers, and communities.

Headquartered in Tralee, Co. Kerry, we operate multiple manufacturing facilities in the southwest of Ireland, including Listowel, Charleville, Newmarket, and Farranfore. Additionally, we manage 29 Farm & Home stores throughout the region, ensuring comprehensive coverage and service. In Northern Ireland and the United Kingdom, our presence extends to key locations in Portadown, Coleraine, and Ossett.

Globally, Kerry Dairy Ireland employs over 1,600 dedicated professionals across Ireland, Northern Ireland, the UK,USA, Netherlands, Spain, Germany, and China. In 2024, we achieved a turnover of approximately €1.3 billion, reflecting our commitment to excellence and growth.

Key responsibilities

1. Stock Release Management

• Coordinate the placement of stock on quality hold based on production, testing, or compliance concerns
• Monitor and manage the timely release of stock once quality criteria are met, ensuring alignment with business needs and minimizing delays in the supply chain
• Liaise with relevant departments to communicate stock status and resolve any quality-related issues that may impact product availability

2. Sampling & Testing Coordination

• Maintain and execute a comprehensive sampling schedule covering:
  • Microbiological testing to assess product safety and shelf-life
  • Allergen testing to ensure compliance with allergen control plans
  • Chemical and nutritional analysis to verify product specifications and labelling accuracy
• Ensure samples are collected, labelled, and submitted to internal or external laboratories in accordance with standard operating procedures and regulatory requirements
• Track and follow up on test results, ensuring timely entry into the ERP system (SAP) and initiating appropriate actions based on outcomes
• Organize and participate in organoleptic (sensory) taste panels to assess product quality and consistency

3. Analysis & Reporting

• Prepare trend analyses and key performance indicator (KPI) reports to support continuous improvement and compliance monitoring
• Participate in internal and external quality audits, supporting audit readiness and corrective action implementation

4. Perform additional duties within the Technical Department as required, including ordering consumables and supporting food safety investigations

Qualifications and skills

• Detail oriented individual with a strong commitment to quality and safety
• Good time management and ability to prioritize tasks effectively
• Self-motivated and confident working independently
• Clear and effective communication skills
• Proficient in the use of Microsoft Excel
• Practical experience in setting up sensory panel would be a plus.

What We Offer

At Kerry Dairy Ireland, we believe in the power of curious and talented individuals to make a real difference. As a Sampling Technician, you’ll be part of a six-person team, with the opportunity to learn directly from your manager and experienced colleagues. Together, we work to inspire food and nourish life, bringing fresh ideas to food industry challenges.

If you’re interested in the food sector and quality, this role is a great opportunity to gain practical technical skills in the agri-food industry.

We also offer:

• 25 days of annual leave (excluding public holidays)
• Comprehensive health coverage
• Career development and training opportunities
• A safe, friendly, and people-focused work environment
• A matched pension scheme of up to 10%
• Access to an Employee Assistance Program
• A benefits platform with discounts and cashback from major retailers