Quality Assurance Technician

Job Description

Duties and Day-to-Day Responsibilities, but not limited to the following:

• Reviews for incoming material receipts for compliance including verification of net weight statements, proper product labeling identification, and allergen statements.
• Performs various aspects of sample collection including selection of sampling equipment, weighing samples, and thorough documentation practices.
• Collection of pre-shipment samples for chemical, physical and microbiological testing by the site analytical testing laboratory
• Analysis and recording/plotting of Quality Control samples and data.
• Recording samples upon delivery to labs.
• Conducts pre-operative inspections including ATP swabbing. Responsible for QA release of manufacturing rooms to production.
• Take environmental monitoring swabbing and allergen verification sampling.
• Conducts allergen verification testing.
• Conducts HACCP reviews and verification activities.
• Provides support and input to production personnel to verify and validate production methods for specific products.
• Assists in investigation of non-conforming material events.
• Performs packaging, labeling and finished product outgoing quality checks.
• Responsible for outgoing trailer inspections and documentation.
• Assists in training operational personals for general concepts of cGMP and food safety.
• Assists Facility Quality Assurance Manager in closing production records and other quality and food safety related duties.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Minimum Training, Education, and Experience Requirements:

Associate’s degree in a science related field; High School Diploma and a minimum of two years’ experience in quality role within a science-based environment; and/or an equivalent combination of education and experience. 

• Possess a working knowledge of manufacturing operations and quality assurance programs including batching, batch verification, and blending procedures.
• Experience with measuring equipment and devices, data entry, and data analysis.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite of applications including Outlook and Excel.

Key Metrics:

The Quality Technician will be held accountable for the following metrics (not all inclusive) as it relates to the operational area assigned.  Additional metrics may be assigned.

Behavior Competencies:

To perform the job successfully, the individual must demonstrate the following competencies:

Problem Solving - Identifies and resolves problems in a timely manner; Gathers and analyzes information skillfully; Develops alternative solutions; Works well in-group problem solving situations; Uses reason even when dealing with emotional topics.

Technical Skills - Pursues training and development opportunities; Strives to continuously build knowledge and skills; Shares expertise with others.

Ethics - Treats people with respect; Keeps commitments; Inspires the trust of others; Works with integrity and ethically; Upholds organizational values.

Judgment - Displays willingness to make decisions; Exhibits sound and accurate judgment; Supports and explains reasoning for decisions; Includes appropriate people in decision-making process; Makes timely decisions.

Planning/Organizing - Prioritizes and plans work activities; Uses time efficiently; Sets goals and objectives; Organizes or schedules other people and their tasks.

Professionalism - Approaches others in a tactful manner; Reacts well under pressure; Treats others with respect and consideration regardless of their status or position; Accepts responsibility for own actions; Follows through on commitments.

Quality - Demonstrates accuracy and thoroughness; Looks for ways to improve and promote quality; Applies feedback to improve performance; Monitors own work to ensure quality.

Quantity - Meets productivity standards; Completes work in timely manner; Strives to increase productivity; Works quickly.

Attendance/Punctuality - Is consistently at work and on time; Ensures work responsibilities are covered when absent; Arrives at meetings and appointments on time.

Dependability - Follows instructions, responds to management direction; Takes responsibility for own actions; Keeps commitments; Commits to long hours of work when necessary to reach goals; Completes tasks on time or notifies appropriate person with an alternate plan.

Initiative - Volunteers readily; Undertakes self-development activities; Seeks increased responsibilities; Looks for and takes advantage of opportunities; Asks for and offers help when needed.

Work Environment:                 

The work environmental characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job:

• Manufacturing environment.
• Standing for extended periods of time.
• Ability to manage a fast-paced operation that can run 24/7.
• Exposure to chemical odors and airborne particles may be encountered. May include handling of hazardous chemicals including caustics, acids, and flammable hydrocarbons.
• The noise level in the work environment is usually quiet.
• Employees are required to wear steel-toed boots/shoes, safety glasses and a hard hat.