Quality Assurance Technician I - PPF

This is an entry-level position responsible for strict compliance with Food Safety and Quality Management System Policies, Procedure, and Work Instructions.  Performs daily process checks to ensure the integrity of each batch of product.

• Use established procedures to perform laboratory activities to include, but not limited to, analytical testing and sensory evaluation
• Perform process checks throughout the raw ingredients, production, packaging, sanitation, warehouse, and shipping areas of the company (e.g. pre-operational checks, sanitation verification, raw ingredient testing, finished product testing, and packaging checks).
• Work in a fast paced manufacturing environment and make key product quality decisions.
• Maintain accurate and organized records of QA activities.
• Restock lab supplies and track inventory.
• Perform air testing, PRP Verification, glass/hard plastic checks, and take swabs and samples.
• Attend and participate in initial and ongoing training.
• Perform audits throughout shift to ensure high quality and food safety requirements are met.
• Ask clarifying questions to ensure accuracy.
• Provide a high level of support to the next customer/person in line
• React to any deviations for Critical Control Limits, as required.
• Complete and comply with the Master Sanitation Schedule (MSS), HACCP procedures, Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs), and Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Compliance.
• Maintain a food-safe sanitary environment at all times.
• Complete records/quality checks with accuracy and attention to detail.
• Escalate any non-conforming product/equipment/material to the appropriate manager/supervisor immediately.
• Assist in training of plant personnel to ensure ability they can perform all the Quality Assurance functions with minimal guidance/support.
• Follow Company’s quality assurance procedures and protocols at all times while on duty (eg. Labeling of containers, Inventory Control, PM programs)
• Promote a positive proactive environment where input from team members is valued and encouraged.
• Report any security breaches, attempts at product tampering or contamination, or other suspicious behavior observed to manager/supervisor.
• Available for overtime work on a scheduled or call-in basis, as necessary.
• Provide back-up support for other roles as necessary.
• Other duties as assigned by the manager/supervisor.

• High school diploma or an equivalent combination of education and experience; Bachelor’s Degree in Agriculture, Food Science or related field preferred.
• Understanding of manufacturing production line process and testing procedures.
• Minimum of one to three (1-3) years of experience in a quality lab environment and knowledge of GMPs.

• Beginning to intermediate proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Outlook, Excel, Power Point, and Access).
• Positive attitude, with excellent punctuality and attendance.
• Self-motivated, proactive, and able to work independently and as a team.
• Ability to self-manage and receive direction well.
• Ability to work effectively under tight deadlines and pressure.
• Ability to read and comprehend work instructions and SOPs.

• Continuously required to communicate with other employees and stand at workstation.
• Regularly lift and/or move objects weighing up to 20 pounds; occasionally lift and/or move objects weighing up to 50 pounds.
• Regularly use close visual acuity/color vision to prepare and analyze data and figures, read lab equipment, and detect product defects.
• Regularly climb ladders and occasionally work at heights of 30 feet.
• Regularly walk, type, push, pull, lift, grasp, hear, smell, and work long hours.

• Regularly exposed to work near moving parts/equipment.
• Regularly exposed to major amounts of dust.
• Regularly exposed to a moderate to severe noise levels.
• Occasionally exposed to outdoor/uncontrolled weather conditions.
• Occasionally exposed to chemicals used in the manufacturing process.

Note:  Valid Driver’s License required for insurance purposes. Plant Management retains the discretion to add to or change the duties of this position at any time.

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this job.  They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and requirements, which may change from time to time based on business needs. When appropriate, reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the job.