Reporting to the Head of Production and Technical Services, the QA Manager oversees the standards, policies, and procedures required to ensure that the company’s products and services consistently meet high quality and regulatory compliance requirements in the country.
Job Summary
- Employer: Malawi Fertilizer Company Ltd
- Job Type: Full-time
- Location: Liwonde, Malawi
- Category: Quality Assurance
- Closing Date: 2026-10-15
Key Responsibilities
- Development and implementation of Laboratory Management System.
- Supervision of a team of laboratory personnel.
- Care and maintenance of laboratory equipment.
- Development of laboratory SOPs.
- Storage of chemicals based on harmonized chemical storage standards.
- Process monitoring and control.
- Manage the sampling and analysis of raw materials and product parameters in line with fertilizer standards.
- Take part in new product development.
- Product and raw materials age analysis.
- Work in coordination with the Production Managers, Maintenance Manager, and Procurement Manager to ensure superior product quality.
- Implementation of Quality Management Systems.
- Interface with regulatory authorities such as the Malawi Bureau of Standards.
- Identify opportunities for process improvements and cost savings.
- Analyse quality trends to drive continuous improvement initiatives.
- Ensure the upkeep of the EHSS (Environmental, Health, Safety, and Sustainability) policies and procedures.
- Ensure compliance with all relevant statutory requirements and security policies and procedures.
- Implement safety protocols by conducting safety assessments, providing training, and monitoring compliance.
- Manage environmental impact by monitoring emissions control, waste disposal, and ensuring compliance.
- Promote occupational health by conducting health screenings, maintaining health records, and providing health education.
- Ensure that individual performance management discussions are completed within the policy guidelines, recorded, and followed through on personal development areas.
- Drive work climate and culture to energise employees, give meaning to work, minimise work disruption, and maximise employee productivity.
Requirements
- Education: BSc in Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, or Industrial Laboratory Practice.
- Experience: 3-5 years’ relevant experience.
- Knowledge: Knowledge of setting up laboratories and use of UV-Vis, Skalar, spectrophotometers, distillers, and Kjeldahl equipment.
- Certifications: Certification and knowledge in ISO 9001 or related standards.
- Skills: Strong analytical abilities, sharp attention to detail, leadership capability, problem-solving skills, and clear communication skills.
How to Apply
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifications and certifications are typically required for a Quality Assurance Manager role in Malawi?
Most employers require a Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a related science field. Professional certifications such as ISO 9001 Lead Auditor or Six Sigma are highly valued. Experience in quality control within manufacturing, especially agro-processing or fertilizer production, is often essential.
What are the common day-to-day responsibilities of a Quality Assurance Manager at a fertilizer company in Malawi?
You will oversee laboratory testing of raw materials and finished products to ensure they meet national and international standards. Daily tasks include managing quality control teams, maintaining documentation for regulatory compliance, and coordinating with production to resolve quality issues. You will also conduct internal audits and liaise with the Malawi Bureau of Standards for certifications.
How does local work culture in Malawi affect the Quality Assurance Manager role?
Malawian workplaces emphasize respect for hierarchy and collaborative decision-making, so building strong relationships with production and management teams is crucial. Punctuality and thorough documentation are highly valued in quality roles due to regulatory scrutiny. Expect to participate in community and corporate social responsibility activities, which are common in Malawian companies.
What career progression opportunities exist for Quality Assurance Managers in Malawi?
With experience, you can advance to Regional Quality Director or Operations Manager roles within multinational agribusiness firms. Some professionals transition into consultancy or regulatory affairs with government bodies like the Malawi Bureau of Standards. Continuous professional development through international certifications opens doors to regional positions in Zambia, Mozambique, or South Africa.
What typical benefits should I expect from a Quality Assurance Manager position in Malawi?
Standard benefits usually include annual leave of 18-24 days, medical aid coverage, and pension contributions compliant with Malawi's pension regulations. Larger companies may offer housing allowances, transport, or performance bonuses. Always verify specific benefits during the interview process as packages vary significantly by employer size and sector.
How should I apply for a Quality Assurance Manager role and what do Malawian employers look for?
Submit a detailed CV highlighting ISO certifications, laboratory management experience, and knowledge of fertilizer or chemical standards through email or the company's online portal. Employers prioritize candidates with demonstrated compliance experience and familiarity with Malawi Bureau of Standards requirements. Prepare for technical assessments and interviews that test your problem-solving skills in quality control scenarios.