Maple Leaf Farms, a leading producer of premium maple syrup in Canada, is seeking a dedicated and passionate Maple Syrup Quality Control Specialist to join our team in rural Quebec. As a key member of our production team, you will be responsible for ensuring that every bottle of maple syrup we produce meets our exacting standards for taste, color, clarity, and density.
Key Responsibilities:
- Conduct regular sensory evaluations (taste, aroma, visual inspection) of maple syrup samples throughout the production process, from raw sap to finished product.
- Utilize refractometers, hydrometers, and colorimeters to measure sugar content, density, and color of syrup samples, ensuring adherence to established grading standards.
- Perform laboratory tests to assess syrup clarity, identify defects, and monitor for any signs of fermentation or contamination.
- Maintain meticulous records of test results, including deviations from standards, and report findings to the Production Manager.
- Collaborate with the sap collection and boiling teams to troubleshoot quality issues and implement corrective actions.
- Assist in maintaining a clean and sanitary work environment, adhering to all food safety regulations and company protocols.
- Participate in the development and implementation of new quality control procedures and techniques.
- Contribute to ongoing research and development efforts aimed at improving syrup quality and production efficiency.
- Calibrate instruments and perform other related tasks.
Qualifications:
- At least two years of experience in food quality control, preferably in a related industry (e.g., sugar production, beverage manufacturing, honey processing).
- Strong sensory evaluation skills (taste, smell, sight) and an understanding of food quality parameters.
- Experience with laboratory equipment and testing procedures used in food quality control.
- Excellent record-keeping and data analysis abilities.
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team.
- Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and adapt to changing priorities.
- Ability to distinguish colors is essential.
- Diploma from accredited Food and Beverage Technician/Technologist Course, or relevant experience
- Must be fluent in French and at least conversant in English.
- Physical ability to stand on the feet during extended periods.
