About Us..
West Cork Distillers was founded in 2003 by John O'Connell, Denis McCarthy and Ger McCarthy and has since grown to a team of over 250 people based in our distillery in Skibbereen, Co. Cork and our Waterford site Donohoe Drinks. We are built on an entrepreneurial energy and a passion for the science and art of spirit and whiskey production.
We have been recognised for our innovative approach, and credited with maturing, distilling and bottling some of the finest craft Irish Whiskey on the global market today.
We are Looking For..
We are seeking an ambitious and motivated Quality Assurance Analyst to join our Quality team. This is a varied role that combines responsibility for quality assurance activities within a designated business unit with involvement in laboratory testing, technical investigations, and site-wide quality systems.
The successful candidate will play a key role in ensuring product quality, food safety, compliance, and operational excellence across the business. Working closely with Production, Supply Chain, Quality, and Product Development teams, you will help maintain high standards while driving continuous improvement initiatives.
This role is designed for individuals who want to build a long-term career within Quality and Technical functions. You will gain exposure to quality management systems, food safety programmes, laboratory operations, technical investigations, and continuous improvement activities.
What You'll Do...
Quality Assurance & Food Safety
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Manage quality activities and performance within an assigned business unit.
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Support the implementation, maintenance, and continuous improvement of the site's Quality Management System.
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Lead and manage designated prerequisite programmes sitewide to ensure ongoing compliance and effectiveness.
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Conduct routine quality inspections, audits, and verification activities throughout production operations.
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In conjunction with the quality team, investigate quality incidents, non-conformances, and customer complaints, identifying root causes and implementing corrective actions.
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Coordinate external laboratory testing and follow-up activities.
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Maintain quality records, certificates of analysis, and compliance documentation.
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Support customer audits, third-party audits, and regulatory inspections.
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Contribute to quality reporting, KPI monitoring, and management review processes.
Product Quality & Continuous Improvement
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Monitor and assess product quality throughout manufacturing processes.
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Conduct routine sensory analysis of raw materials, in-process products, and finished goods.
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Analyse quality data to identify trends and improvement opportunities.
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Participate in product trials, process validations, and new product development activities.
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Support cross-functional continuous improvement projects focused on quality, efficiency, and compliance.
Laboratory & Technical Development
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Support routine laboratory testing programmes and sample management activities.
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Assist with analytical and instrumental testing following training and competency development.
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Participate in laboratory investigations and technical problem-solving activities.
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Develop technical laboratory skills through hands-on experience and structured training.
Leadership & Professional Development
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Build effective working relationships across operational and technical teams.
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Promote a culture of quality, compliance, and continuous improvement.
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Take ownership of assigned projects and improvement initiatives.
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Develop skills in root cause analysis, project management, problem-solving, and leadership.
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Support training and knowledge-sharing activities across the business where appropriate.
What You'll have...
Essential Requirements
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Degree or diploma in Food Science, Chemistry, Microbiology, Biochemistry, Brewing & Distilling, or a related scientific discipline.
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Experience in a Quality Assurance, Quality Control, Laboratory, Manufacturing, FMCG, Food, Beverage, or Pharmaceutical environment.
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Strong attention to detail and excellent organisational skills.
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Ability to analyse data, investigate issues, and implement effective solutions.
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Strong communication and relationship-building skills.
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Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, particularly Excel.
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A proactive approach and commitment to continuous improvement.
Desirable
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Experience working with quality systems such as BRCGS, ISO, or equivalent standards.
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Laboratory experience, including analytical testing techniques.
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Experience of sensory evaluation programmes.
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Internal auditing experience.
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Experience within food, beverage, brewing, distilling, pharmaceutical, or related manufacturing industries.
We Offer...
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Competitive Salary
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Pension
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Health Insurance
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Increased annual leave with service
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Educational Support
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Employee Discount
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Free Lunch on Thursdays
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Free Fruit Deliveries twice per week
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€1000 Refer a Friend Bonus
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On-site Parking
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On-site Kitchen Facilities with vending machines and great coffee!
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Bike to Work
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Employee Assistance Programme
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Employee Events
