Candling
Candling is a quality control method used in the seafood processing industry where workers inspect fish fillets or other seafood products by placing them on a special illuminated table. The light shines through the product, making it easier to spot any defects, parasites, or foreign materials that might be present. This process got its name from the historical practice of using candles for inspection, though modern facilities now use specialized light tables. It's a crucial step in ensuring food safety and product quality in seafood processing plants.
Examples in Resumes
Performed candling inspection on over 1,000 pounds of fish fillets daily
Trained new employees in proper candling techniques and quality standards
Supervised candling operations for salmon processing line
Typical job title: "Candling Inspectors"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Candling Inspectors
Professional Organizations
Job Boards
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How would you implement a training program for new candling inspectors?
Expected Answer: A senior inspector should discuss creating standard operating procedures, hands-on training methods, quality standards documentation, and how to assess inspector competency.
Q: What steps would you take to improve the efficiency of a candling inspection line?
Expected Answer: Should mention organizing workflow, proper lighting setup, rotation schedules to prevent eye strain, and maintaining consistent quality while managing speed.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What are the most common defects you look for during candling?
Expected Answer: Should be able to describe parasites, bruising, blood spots, and other quality issues, plus explain how to identify them using the light table.
Q: How do you maintain quality standards during high-volume processing?
Expected Answer: Should discuss balancing speed with accuracy, when to slow down for careful inspection, and maintaining concentration during busy periods.
Junior Level Questions
Q: Explain the basic process of candling inspection.
Expected Answer: Should describe how to position fish on the light table, what to look for, and basic quality standards.
Q: What safety and hygiene practices are important during candling?
Expected Answer: Should mention proper protective equipment, hand washing, clean workspace maintenance, and basic food safety rules.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-1 years)
- Basic candling inspection techniques
- Understanding of food safety rules
- Basic quality standards knowledge
- Following standard operating procedures
Mid (1-3 years)
- Advanced defect identification
- Speed with accuracy in inspection
- Training new employees
- Documentation of quality issues
Senior (3+ years)
- Supervision of inspection lines
- Development of training programs
- Quality program management
- Process improvement implementation
Red Flags to Watch For
- No knowledge of basic food safety practices
- Inability to maintain focus for extended periods
- Poor attention to detail
- Lack of experience with quality control documentation
Related Terms
Need more hiring wisdom? Check these out...
From Passive to Active: Nurturing Candidates Over the Long Haul
Refining Job Descriptions to Expand Applicant Pools: Casting a Wider Talent Net
Why Candidate-Centric Recruitment Is Your Secret Weapon (And How to Get It Right)
