QA Specialist

About Klosterman Baking Company:

As a longstanding pillar of quality and taste since our inception in 1892, Klosterman has continuously delivered fresh, delicious bread and baked goods to communities across the Midwest. Our commitment to excellence, combined with a passion for crafting products that delight our customers, has fueled our growth and success over the years. At Klosterman, we embrace our company mission: "Bake it safe, make it better, serve it proudly together."

We are currently seeking dedicated individuals to join our team and contribute to our legacy of baking excellence. If you're ready to be part of a dynamic company with a rich history and a bright future, we invite you to explore our available opportunities and become a part of the Klosterman family, where tradition meets innovation in the world of baked goods.

------

SUMMARY:

Q.A. Specialists will observe and monitor raw materials, in-process products and finished products to comply with all laws, policies, and standards governing food safety and product quality. Q.A. Specialists are obligated to report all food safety issues that may occur. This is a salaried role, and all QA Specialists are considered to be an extension of the management team. 

1. Keep records of quality tests completed.

2. Provide updated testing requirements and procedures as defined by the customer.

3. Prioritize customer specifications and ensure all product meets customer specification requirements.

4. Adhere to all industry quality and safety standards.

5. Assist management team in internal audits, GMP walkthroughs and plant observations.

6. Ability to conduct basic biological and laboratory testing of finished product.

7. Proper performance of quality checks associated with bakery products.

Some typical quality checks include:

- Records of scaling weight.

- Records of finished product measurements.

- Records of product temperature @ various processing steps.

- Records of production QCP’s (Quality Control Point Documentation).

- Records of shelf-life testing.

- Records of pH, moisture, and water activity.

- Records of finished color measurements.

- Records of other quality checks as required by the customer.

8. Logic and Reasoning Ability:

- Able to solve problems relating to quality requirements and testing.

9. Math Ability:

- Able to add subtract, multiply, divide, and estimate.

10. Integrity:

- Honest, respectful of others, calm and patient in the face of adversity.

11. Physical:

- Capable of standing and walking for long periods of time.

12. Environmental:

- Work within a noisy environment.

- Work within a non-climate-controlled workspace where temperatures may vary (typical in manufacturing environments).

13. Dependability:

- Good attendance.

SAFETY:

14. Adhere to OSHA policies and company safety procedures and requirements.

15. Submit documentation for safety hazards to a supervisor when identified.

16. Avoid rushing, awkward positions, and lifting heavy objects alone.

FOOD SAFETY:

17. Understanding of HACCP.

18. Follow all GMPs.

19. Properly follow allergen procedures

20. Monitor product surfaces and work area for any source of cross contamination.

21. Report any foreign material or food safety risk to a supervisor immediately.

22. Lead by example by demonstrating what is expected of the food safety culture of Klosterman Baking Company.

23. Assist in distributing food safety culture surveys to employees.

QUALITY:

24. Complete required checks as defined by the customer.

25. Understand and meet product specifications.

26. Inform production supervisor, general manager and/or quality manager if product is not within specification.

27. Generate and maintain product on hold and follow proper hold procedures.

28. Conduct training with associates regarding food safety, SQF and quality initiatives.

29. Assist quality manager in investigating and resolving customer complaints.