Quality Technician

Job Title: Quality Assurance Technician
Department: Quality and R&D
Reports to:  Manager

The ideal candidate will possess and live by Mercer Foods core values.

CONTINUOUS IMPROVEMENT ● ACCOUNTABILITY ● INTEGRITY ● PERSONAL GROWTH AND WELLNESS ● TEAMWORK ● WORK – LIFE BALANCE


ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:  Conduct Quality Assurance audits of production facility assuring company standards are maintained and product integrity is preserved. Consult with management to resolve quality, production, and efficiency problems. Function as an information source to various company departments when special and critical quality issues occur. Function in conjunction with Manager, Quality Assurance Services on special department projects. This role determines overall plant product quality by conducting and evaluating various product tests and tests related to ingredients and packaging. The Quality Assurance Specialist will resolve minor to major quality problems with the facility; evaluate and take correct action when necessary regarding product at all levels of product movement; educate and instruct plant personnel in recommended quality control testing, equipment and general sanitation and housekeeping practices while confirming these procedures are maintained. Preparation through submission of evaluation reports is a vital function in the role as well.   

COMPETENCIES: 
Living Mercer Values Demonstrates the characteristics and behaviors of an individual who is living Mercer's values. Mercer's values are accountability, continuous improvement, integrity, personal growth and wellness, teamwork, and work-life balance.
AttendanceAttendance is essential in demonstrating dependability. A reliable team member is on time for all scheduled shifts and is present as scheduled. Any team member with two or more active steps of discipline for attendance does not meet expectations of position.
PerformanceDemonstrates the skills and abilities to perform his or her job. Any team member with two or more active steps of discipline for any combination of disciplinary actions does not meet expectations of position.
SafetyGood judgement is demonstrated at all times to maintain a safe work environment. Any team member with two or more active steps of discipline for safety related incidents does not meet expectations of position.
TrainingCurrent training is an indication of job preparedness from a safety, job skills, and food safety perspective. An employee that has completed all training expectations throughout the year as it pertains to his or her job requirements demonstrates that he or she meets the expectations of his or her position. A person that has past due trainings does not meet the expectations of his or her position.

SKILLS: 
AuditsConduct and/ or assist with audits and inspections of performance and activities.
Communication EscalationEscalates issues to manager or other management as needed.
Conflict ManagementIs able to identify and handle conflicts sensibly, fairly, and efficiently.
Data Based DecisionsDemonstrates strong quantitative and analytical skills as they apply to reporting and information processing. Uses various methods to make data-based decisions.
DiscrepanciesInvestigate and correct data discrepancies
DocumentationMaintain proper documentation and records.
InspectInspects equipment or product for conformity requirements and standards.
Policy EnforcementComply and assist in enforcing all policies and procedures.
PrioritiesIdentifying and aligning priorities with business vision, mission, and values while achieving objectives.
Product InspectionsParticipates in product inspections and is able to decipher quality product from inferior product.
Product SpecificationsDemonstrates knowledge in product specifications and descriptions, performs the necessary job duties in accordance with product specifications that allows efficient processing.
ProductivityBalances quality, productivity, cost, safety and morale to achieve positive results in all areas. Works to continuously improve in all areas.
Quality StandardsMust be able to understand quality standards, methods and reporting as required.
Record KeepingMaintain data records on the computer system.
RegulationImplement and maintains regulations, requirements and programs. Provides support during audits of programs and other regulatory audits of programs.
System ManagementManage data systems, to include developing and monitoring data entry, maintenance, tracking, reporting, and output.
Technical ExpertisePossesses technical expertise in area of specialty.

REQUIREMENTS:  Two years’ experience in field, laboratory, or production facility quality control. Demonstrated ability to communicate orally or in written form effectively with co-workers, departments, and carriers.  

FOOD SAFETY REQUIREMENTS: 
•Place high priority on food safety, quality, and sanitation by understanding and executing Mercer Food’s food safety and sanitation policies and procedures.
•Hold self and others accountable to Mercer Foods food safety & sanitation guidelines and policies by communicating any food safety incident, observation, or opportunity to your leadership team or teammates.
•In the absence of the QC Manager serves as back up to ensure all food safety, quality objectives and SQF system requirements are met.  

WORK ENVIRONMENT:  The usual and customary methods of performing the job's functions require the following physical demands: occasional lifting, carrying, pushing, and/or pulling; occasional stooping, kneeling, crouching, and/or crawling; and frequent fine finger dexterity. Generally, the job requires the following percentages of time committed to physical activity: 50% or more sitting, 50% or more walking, and 40% or more standing. The job is performed under occasional temperature variations and in a food manufacturing production environment. Unrestricted visual and audio abilities are required for the safety of all employees. The ability to lift to 40 lbs. is required.