Quality Assurance Technician

Quality Assurance Technician

About the Company

Over a century ago, Armanino started as immigrants from Liguria, Italy, the birthplace of pesto. It started as a mom-and-pop grocery that became the roots of today’s Armanino. For nearly 100 years, Armanino has taken the time to care and grow and select locally-sourced, artisan ingredients for chef-inspired recipes that add flavor and spice to your favorite foods. We take pride in globalizing the American palate through our array of sauces, meatballs, and grated cheeses. Our products are served through food service outlets as well as seen on retail shelves across the nation. We are based in Pleasanton, CA, and our products are made in Hayward, CA. We are traded under the OTC market with ticker symbol AMNF.

Position Summary

To ensure that ingredients, packaging materials and finished products meet or exceeds Armanino’s specifications. To work independently and collaboratively to support the Quality Assurance Department in maintaining an effective Food Safety and Quality Program. To fulfill the Quality Assurance needs efficiently and effectively in relation to the production of food by Armanino and its co-manufacturers.

Key Responsibilities

In Process Quality Checks

· Perform pre-operational inspection and daily food safety and quality checks (lot code, label, packaging, ingredient, CCP, seal, weight checks, etc.) to ensure products are within specification and procedures are being followed.

· Evaluate ingredient, in-process and finished products for quality and acceptability. Performs all necessary analysis as required, and according to the product specification. Tests may include but is not limited to pH, moisture, consistency, salt, bulk density, and sensory analysis.

· Assist in resolving quality/food safety issues and the implementation of corrective & preventive measures.

· Accurately completes daily quality control logs.

· Prepare and print production logs and labels. Assists in label reconciliation and inventory.

· HACCP Monitoring (CCP verification, inspects rejected products and records findings).

Lab Testing

· Aseptically performs microbiology analyses on ingredients and finished products.

· Prepares all reagents, chemicals, media, and other materials needed to perform analyses.

· Maintain micro test records and communicate any issues to Supervisor.

· Obtains samples and coordinates shipment of samples to third party laboratories as needed. Reviews associated results and data.

Food Safety and Quality Compliance

· Ensure that all employees are following GMPs through daily monitoring and monthly GMP Inspections.

· Perform equipment calibrations (pH meter, moisture analyzer, salt meter, thermometer, etc.) according to schedule and ensures calibration logs are completed in a timely manner.

· Assist in obtaining and managing retention samples of ingredients, in-process, finished products and packaging as needed.

· Prepare co-manufacturer samples according to recommended cooking instructions and perform required tests to ensure supplier conformance to agreed specifications.

· Perform environmental and sanitation validation testing (ATP, protein, and allergen swabbing).

· Perform Internal Audits (GMP, Allergen, etc.) as assigned by Supervisor.

· Attend, participate and assist in ongoing refresher food safety and quality training sessions.

· Effectively communicates food safety and quality issues to Supervisor.

· Verify freezers and coolers are operating at correct temperature.

· Assist in maintaining SDS and technical data sheets up to date.

· Assist in ensuring incoming ingredients and packaging materials conform to specification sheets.

QA Support

· Assist in audit preparation (BRC, Organic, Halal, etc.)

· Assist QA Department in administration duties such as filing and data entry.

· Generate Certificate of Analysis upon customer request.

· Participate in corporate teams as needed.

· Responsibilities are not limited to the above mentioned. Additional duties may be assigned by QA Supervisor/Manager.

Ideal Experience & Education

· Associate/ Bachelor’s degree in science related field or previous QA work experience in the food industry is preferred.

· HACCP certified. Familiarity with BRC or SQF is a plus.

· Excellent attention to detail, ability to accurately fill out forms and logs, able to distinguish colors.

· Knowledge of basic laboratory techniques, skills and good lab practices is a plus.

· Knowledge of basic math skills. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.

· Ability to use computer or other electronic devices for data entry. Proficient in MS Word, Excel, and Outlook.

· Must be able to work in a facility with major food allergens (milk, tree nuts).

· Ability to climb ladders and wear required PPE. Continually exposed to cold refrigeration/freezer temperature.

· Fluent in written & verbal English. Bilingual in Spanish is a plus.

· Must be willing to work flexible hours including overtime as needed, occasional weekends.

Compensation

The pay range for this role takes into account the wide array of factors that are considered in making compensation decisions including but not limited to skill sets; experience and training; licensure and certifications; and other business and organizational needs. A reasonable estimate of the current base salary range is $21-$23/hour.

Work Conditions

· In person at our manufacturing location in Hayward, CA

Our Culture

· Ownership Mindset – Employees take responsibility for their actions and outcomes, embracing both successes and failures.

· Clear Accountability – Roles and expectations are transparent, ensuring every team member understands their impact.

· Bias for Action – Decisions are made efficiently, with a focus on execution rather than endless deliberation.

· Continuous Learning – Mistakes are seen as opportunities for growth, and innovation is encouraged at all levels.

· Feedback-Driven – Open communication and constructive feedback are valued, fostering improvement and development.

· Empowered Employees – Individuals have autonomy to take initiative, make decisions, and drive results.

· Results-Oriented – Performance is measured by impact, not just effort, reinforcing a culture of achievement.

· Agility & Adaptability – The company embraces change, quickly pivoting when needed to stay ahead of the competition.

· Collaboration & Trust – Teams work together with mutual respect, ensuring alignment and shared success.

· Growth Mindset – Challenges are seen as stepping stones, fostering innovation and pushing boundaries.

Work Hard, Play Hard Mentality – A balance of productivity and enjoyable moments,

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Pay: $22.00 - $23.00 per hour

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person

Salary : $21 - $23