Temporary Technical Executive Food Science

We are delighted to be recruiting a Temporary Technical Executive for our client the Food Safety Authority of Ireland to join their Food Science & Technology team. This role is being recruited on a fixed term contract for 11 months. Title Temporary Technical Executive, Food Science & Technology Reports to Chief Specialist, Food Science & Technology JOB PURPOSE To play a strategic role in the Authority's objectives with regard to food safety and consumer protection, by supporting the work of the chief specialist in Food Science & Technology. JOB ENVIRONMENT The Food Safety Authority of Ireland (FSAI) is a statutory, independent and science-based national agency, dedicated to protecting consumers by leading a collaborative food safety community to continuously raise food standards and create a culture of excellence. Core FSAI objectives exist to ensure through regulation and engagement with stakeholders, that food consumed, produced, distributed or marketed in Ireland is to the highest possible standards. Consumers are placed at the centre of all its activities. Consumers have a fundamental right to safe food and also that they are not being misled about the food they are purchasing or eating. As the competent authority in Ireland for novel food, GM food, food enzymes and irradiated food, the obligations of the FSAI are extensive, requiring routine attendance at national and international regulatory meetings (virtually or physically) as well as the delivery of precise technical and legislative information on request. The FSAI in recent years has also engaged in proactively identifying potential risks to the safety and integrity of the food supply chain using data and information from a variety of sources. Inter-divisional cooperation with FSAI staff members with both scientific and non-scientific backgrounds is essential for the efficient functioning of the organisation. Effective and timely interaction with other regulatory bodies, the food industry and the public is crucial to a seamless enforcement of EU and national food law. PRINCIPAL JOB ACCOUNTABILITIES Assist the Chief Specialist, Food Science & Technology in ensuring that the competent authority functions of the Authority (novel foods, GM foods, food enzymes and irradiated foods) are Engage with the emerging risks process within FSAI as it relates to gathering, assessment and dissemination of relevant information and data Represent the FSAI and Ireland at EU regulatory meetings as Represent the FSAI at, and participate in expert or scientific gatherings as Collate and interpret analytical data and information from national and international sources for the purpose of dissemination to enforcement officers, the public or EU institutions. Liaise with national and international parties (State Agencies, DOH, DAFM, EU Commission, OECD and Codex) contributing to the development of various standards and protocols. Respond to requests for information from members of the public, Government Departments, Government Agencies and industry as required. Assist with the technical aspects of monitoring food Assist with food allergen Other duties as REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE An honours science degree, or equivalent, with experience in at least one of the following areas: Food Science, Food technology, Biotechnology, Biochemistry or other relevant scientific A minimum of two years' relevant post graduate work experience or a relevant post graduate qualification (minimum MSc) Experience in project research, collation, evaluation, interpretation and dissemination of data/information. Knowledge of EU and national legislation governing various food categories, along with practical experience of their application in a variety of situations would be an advantage. Excellent analytical, report writing and organisational skills are Ability to set and meet Ability to treat written and spoken material and information in strict confidence when PC proficiency is essential, including knowledge of Microsoft Windows XP Pro and Office 2007, PowerPoint, Excel and web-based applications. REQUIRED COMPETENCIES Leadership Works with the team to facilitate high performance, developing clear and realistic objectives and addressing and performance issues if they arise Provides clear information and advice as to what is required of the team Strives to develop and implement new ways of working effectively to meet objectives Leads the team by example, coaching and supporting individuals as required Places high importance on staff development, training and maximising skills & capacity of team Is flexible and willing to adapt, positively contributing to the implementation of change Judgment, Analysis and Decision Making Gathers and analyses information from relevant sources, whether financial, numerical or otherwise weighing up a range of critical factors Takes account of any broader issues, agendas, sensitivities and related implications when making decisions Uses previous knowledge and experience in order to guide decisions Uses judgement to make sound decisions with a well reasoned rationale and stands by these Puts forward solutions to address problems Management and Delivery of Results Takes responsibility and is accountable for the delivery of agreed objectives Successfully manages a range of different projects and work activities at the same time Structures and organises their own and others work effectively Is logical and pragmatic in approach, delivering the best possible results with the resources available Delegates work effectively, providing clear information and evidence as to what is required Proactively identifies areas for improvement and develops practical suggestions for their implementation Demonstrates enthusiasm for new developments/changing work practices and strives to implement these changes effectively Applies appropriate systems/ processes to enable quality checking of all activities and outputs Practices and promotes a strong focus on delivering high quality customer service, for internal and external customers Interpersonal and Communication skills Builds and maintains contact with colleagues and other stakeholders to assist in performing role Acts as an effective link between staff and senior management Encourages open and constructive discussions around work issues Projects conviction, gaining buy-in by outlining relevant information and selling the benefits Treats others with diplomacy, tact, courtesy and respect, even in challenging circumstances Presents information clearly, concisely and confidently when speaking and in writing Collaborates and supports colleagues to achieve organisational goal Specialist knowledge, Expertise and Self Development Has a clear understanding of the roles, objectives and targets of self and team and how they fit into the work of the unit and Department/ Organisation and effectively communicates this to others Has high levels of expertise and broad Public Sector knowledge relevant to his/her area of work Focuses on self development, striving to improve performance Drive and Commitment to Public Service Values Strives to perform at a high level, investing significant energy to achieve agreed objectives Demonstrates resilience in the face of challenging circumstances and high demands Is personally trustworthy and can be relied upon Ensures that customers are at the heart of all services provided Upholds high standards of honesty, ethics and integrity This job description is subject to change from time to time, in line with the FSAI's work requirements. Probation A probationary period of 3 months applies to this position. Pay In line with Government pay policy, the starting pay for this position will be at Point 1 of the salary scale i.e. €43,195 (on a pro rata basis). If you are currently a serving civil or public servant, starting salary may be based on your current salary. Location The Exchange, George's Dock, IFSC, Dublin D01 P2V6. There is a hybrid work model in place. Annual Leave 29 days per anum (on a pro rata basis). HOW TO APPLY Please submit your CV by 5pm on Monday 6th May 2025 Skills: Administration Project Management Food Science