Tecnólogo de Alimentos

Job Posting Organization:
The World Food Programme (WFP) is the world's largest humanitarian organization dedicated to saving lives in emergencies and using food assistance to build pathways to peace, stability, and prosperity for people recovering from conflict, disasters, and the impacts of climate change. Established in 1961, WFP operates in over 80 countries, employing thousands of staff members who are committed to the mission of eradicating hunger and ensuring security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security for all. WFP's vision is to create a diverse, committed, skilled, and high-performing workforce that operates in a healthy and inclusive work environment, embodying values such as Integrity, Collaboration, Commitment, Humanity, and Inclusion. WFP has been recognized for its efforts, being awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2020, and continues to invest in the personal and professional development of its employees through various training and mentorship programs, as well as opportunities for internal mobility across its global offices.

Job Overview:
The position of Tecnólogo de Alimentos is crucial within the WFP's operations in Nicaragua, reporting directly to the Deputy Country Director and collaborating with the Regional Food Quality and Safety Officer on technical aspects. The role focuses on supporting analytical work and implementing the corporate approach to food quality and safety (FSQA) to meet operational needs. Ensuring food quality and safety is a fundamental pillar of WFP's comprehensive supply chain, integrating safety standards, policies, and procedures from design" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">program design through procurement, storage, transportation, and final distribution. The Tecnólogo de Alimentos will be responsible for contributing to various projects and programs, specifically focusing on food technology and safety interventions. This includes supporting data collection, risk analysis, and presenting relevant information for the implementation of food safety and quality initiatives, while collaborating with supply chain and program functions to safeguard the health of beneficiaries and maintain the integrity of food assistance delivery.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The main responsibilities of the Tecnólogo de Alimentos include: supporting the collection of data and documentation required for registering potential food suppliers on WFP's shortlist, particularly small producer cooperatives; developing and analyzing technical data (laboratory analyses, technical specifications, etc.) and contributing to the preparation of reports related to food quality and safety across various WFP operations; establishing risk-based control measures and preparing evidence-based recommendations for the local office to combat and reduce food product losses and quality and safety issues; assisting in investigations related to food safety incidents to document and share lessons learned; contributing to the development and application of food quality protocols and tools, ensuring alignment with WFP's procurement and supply chain strategies; ensuring that food procured for the office meets WFP specifications and that inspection companies adhere to stipulated requirements; supporting the supply chain during food procurement deliveries, accompanying inspection companies according to corporate quality and safety standards; aiding the office in executing the Local and Regional Food Purchase Policy (LRFPP) for small producers, which involves developing tools, materials, and methodologies to enhance supplier capacity; supporting office projects related to food quality in various food assistance programs; strengthening the capacity of food suppliers, office staff, and WFP implementing partners for effective food assistance delivery; establishing productive relationships with supply chain colleagues and other relevant units; following emergency preparedness practices to ensure rapid response and deployment of food and resources in affected areas; and staying updated on advancements and cutting-edge research in food safety and quality to incorporate best industry practices into the supply chain.

Required Qualifications:
The minimum standard qualifications for this position include a professional degree in food engineering, food science, food control, food safety, or related fields, with postgraduate studies in areas relevant to the position. Candidates should have at least 6 years of experience in food quality assurance in supervisory roles, with progressively increasing responsibilities in food quality. Professional training and practical experience in applying advanced quality management systems and food safety protocols are essential. Experience in auditing management systems for the food industry (IFS/BRC/FSSC 22000, etc.) and implementing food quality and safety control protocols is required. Proficiency in using MS Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, etc.) is essential, along with the ability to adapt to new corporate systems. Candidates should possess strong analytical, networking, and coordination skills, with excellent written and oral communication abilities. Knowledge of the local market and suppliers, particularly in food and supply chains, is important, as is the ability to prepare standard reports or documents. Basic knowledge of competitive purchasing and selling processes for products and goods is also required, along with communication skills, initiative, innovation, teamwork, and the ability to work under pressure.

Educational Background:
Candidates must hold a professional degree in food engineering, food sciences, food control, food safety, or other related fields. Additionally, postgraduate studies in areas relevant to the position are preferred, enhancing the candidate's qualifications and understanding of the complexities involved in food safety and quality management.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 6 years of experience in food quality assurance, with a focus on supervisory roles that demonstrate progressively increasing responsibilities in the field of food quality. This experience should include professional training and practical application of advanced quality management systems and food safety protocols, as well as experience in auditing management systems for the food industry, such as IFS, BRC, or FSSC 2200

• Familiarity with food quality and safety control protocols and the ability to effectively use MS Office applications are also essential.

Languages:
Fluency in Spanish is mandatory, as it is the primary language of communication in the workplace. Proficiency in English is considered an advantage, preferably at an advanced level, as it may facilitate communication with international colleagues and stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The position is offered under a Service Contract for a duration of 6 months, with the possibility of extension. The contractual level is SC6, indicating a mid-level position within the organization. The role is based in Managua, Nicaragua, and is part of WFP's commitment to fostering an inclusive work environment that supports diversity and equal opportunity. WFP does not charge any fees during the application process and is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities throughout the recruitment process.