Play a key role in ensuring food safety & quality for millions of Australians
Based in Lockwood (Bendigo), Victoria – Free Parking Onsite
About Us
At Hazeldenes, we have more than 80 years of history underpinning how we proudly go about our business. It's not just about our delicious chickens, innovation, and commitment to quality—it's about our people doing extraordinary things to deliver great products.
We are proud of our people, our reputation, and our place in the community. From humble beginnings in Kangaroo Flat in Bendigo, our facilities have spread across rural Victoria. Our people come from many different cultures and backgrounds and have skills ranging from farming and quality control to engineering and poultry processing.
The Role
We are looking for a passionate and detail-oriented Quality Assurance Lab Technician to join our QA team. In this role, you will play a vital part in upholding our commitment to product safety and excellence by conducting microbiological testing, monitoring critical control points, and maintaining documentation to support our quality systems.
Working closely with the QA Manager, QA Coordinator, and broader operational teams, you will contribute to the continuous improvement of food safety outcomes and ensure our customers receive the highest quality products.
Key Responsibilities
Testing
Preparation of media for microbiological testing
Perform microbiological testing of finished product and shelf-life testing of product
Perform sensory evaluations as required
Environmental swab testing of surfaces as required (early morning start)
Receiving, processing, and preparing samples for analysis, including labelling, aliquoting, and plating.
Ensure the laboratory is clean, organized, and safe, adhering to safety protocols and procedures.
Monitoring
Monitor and document performance of all products from receival of raw material to load out of product, including additional aspects such as pre operational hygiene and sanitation. Collate and monitor data to indicate trend of product performances
Product Identification and Rotation
Performing routine maintenance and basic troubleshooting on laboratory equipment.
Compliance
Perform product testing on finished products, in process products, time/temperature measures, storage conditions, packaging and ingredients received from approved suppliers to ensure that customer specifications are met
Perform shelf-life testing on finished products, in process products, time/temperature measures, storage conditions, packaging and ingredients received from approved suppliers to ensure that customer specifications are met
Perform daily Sensory evaluations on finished products to ensure that customer specifications are met
Complete documentation as required
Occupational Health & Safety
Follow all systems and processes to ensure that OHS requirements are met
Follow the pre-defined process to report any incidents and hazards that occur
Reporting
Prepare regular written reports based on analysis of various product testing
Accurately recording all the test results, observations, and quality control data in laboratory management system.
Data entry of analysis of product testing as required
Perform any duties as directed from the QA Manager
Quality System
Follow all Company Quality processes to ensure that all quality standards are met
Ensure that customer specifications are met
Provide advice and guidance to all staff, Supervisors and Managers in the interpretation of the Quality System and requirements
Assist in developing and maintaining Quality documentation to ensure current and up to date information is available upon request
About You
We're seeking someone who is proactive, detail-focused, and passionate about quality assurance. You'll also bring:
Previous experience in a QA/Lab Technician role (advantageous)
Qualifications in science or food technology (desirable but not essential)
High attention to detail and strong written/verbal communication
Dedication to Good Laboratory Practices and workplace safety
Ability to work early starts (for swab testing)
A current driver's licence and reliable transport are essential
Why Join Us?
Career progression in a growing business
Discounted company products and free onsite parking
Supportive, inclusive, and safety-focused workplace culture
Make a real impact in the food production industry
How to Apply:
If you would like to join our dynamic team and be a part of our ongoing success, then click"Apply"to submit your resume and a cover letter.
We proudly embrace and promote cultural diversity and Equal Employment Opportunity within the workplace. Indigenous Australians, Torres Strait Islanders, and minority groups are encouraged to apply.
Note:Applications will only be considered for candidates who have the right to work in Australia without restrictions or sponsorship.
Unlock job insights
Salary match Number of applicants Skills match
Your application will include the following questions:Which of the following statements best describes your right to work in Australia? How many years' experience do you have as a Quality Assurance Role? What's your expected annual base salary? How much notice are you required to give your current employer? Are you willing to relocate for this role?
Manufacturing, Transport & Logistics 1,001-5,000 employees
Hazeldenes is not just a brand, it is a legacy.
You see, we started as a family-run chicken business back in 1938. And, whilst we've gone through a lot of changes since then, what hasn't changed is our commitment to quality and animal welfare.
Our farms are, and have always been, located amongst the golden fields of regional Victoria but our products are available further afield. Find a stockist near you.
We believe that great moments are made around great food. So since the early years, we've had a simple goal… to provide Australians with great Australian chicken.
Hazeldenes is not just a brand, it is a legacy.
You see, we started as a family-run chicken business back in 1938. And, whilst we've gone through a lot of changes since then, what hasn't changed is our commitment to quality and animal welfare.
Our farms are, and have always been, located amongst the golden fields of regional Victoria but our products are available further afield. Find a stockist near you.
We believe that great moments are made around great food. So since the early years, we've had a simple goal… to provide Australians with great Australian chicken.
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