QA Inspector

About the role

The Quality Assurance (QA) Inspector ensures quality standards are maintained throughout the plant by monitoring various processes, including verification of raw material receipts, sampling, and testing of finished products. This role involves collaboration with overall facility management and participation in tests and pilot runs for new and improved products.

Responsibilities

• Verify raw material receipts and take samples for testing.
• Inspect and test finished packaged products, including lifting and moving samples and boxed products.
• Evaluate results from pilot programs and prepare technical reports for research and development (R&D).
• Assist R&D in developing products consistent with quality, safety, value, and wholesomeness expectations.
• Perform product sampling, testing, and analysis, including trending, grading, quality, and functionality validation.
• Participate in design reviews and provide feedback on error detection for new products and process quality.
• Inspect machinery, structures, and cleanliness post-sanitation to ensure compliance with standards.
• Report non-compliant areas to management and perform re-inspections before operations begin.
• Conduct audits, monitor for potential foreign material sources, and report findings to management.
• Inspect and test equipment, including verifying scale accuracy, metal detection systems, and sanitizing equipment.
• Monitor and inspect various areas such as freezers, hand-wash sinks, locker rooms, overhead structures, and pest control.
• Ensure employees use proper sanitation equipment (e.g., hairnets, beard nets, frocks, gloves).
• Inspect raw material trailers, including seals, temperatures, and supplier verification; perform core sampling tests.
• Complete product adjustment forms, damaged box reports, and sparse lean claim forms accurately and timely.
• Perform regularly scheduled product sampling for micro and analytical tests; record and report data accurately.
• Ensure accurate labeling, packaging, and shipping of product samples to specified laboratories.
• Inspect finished products, place holds on products for additional inspection, and coordinate production stops when necessary.
• Measure and record quality factors of finished products, such as fat, protein, temperature, and color.
• Inspect and manifest all finished products, including visual inspections, liner checks, and temperature sampling.
• Provide coverage and assist in other areas as needed; perform inventory checks for QA supplies.
• Perform all other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Ability to perform all essential job functions with or without reasonable accommodation.
• Basic math and writing skills.
• General computer knowledge and proficiency, including Microsoft Office (Word and Excel).
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy.
• Ability to follow directions and analyze/interpret data from various sources.
• Self-directed and able to communicate effectively with all levels of employees.
• Regular and punctual attendance.

Physical Requirements

• Must be able to lift, push, and pull up to 60 lbs.
• Requires walking, standing, twisting, reaching, bending, climbing, and lifting.
• Willingness to work flexible hours, including weekends.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent is required.
• Experience in a food or restaurant environment is preferred.
• Verifiable ability to perform essential job functions will be considered.