QA Lab Specialist I

Responsibilities

• Maintain data on database for liquid extracts
• Maintain microbiology results, send monthly micro verifications to third party lab
• Maintain and update laboratory procedures, forms, etc., for approval by QA Supervisor
• Knowledgeable in the SQF process and enforcement of its procedures
• Knowledgeable in the HACCP process and corrective actions
• Identifies non-conforming product and gathers pertinent information needed to help determine disposition
• Maintain retain samples and prepare samples for test evaluation during production/manufacturing
• Provide Complete COAs to customers in a timely manner
• Ship samples to third party labs for routine and specialized testing
• Conduct QA Lab special projects as assigned by QA Manager
• Assist with Compliance audits -- both internal and external e.g. SQF, NCDA, FDA, customer audits
• Train new employees on proper use of lab equipment and annual refresher training
• Review and file COAs for incoming raw materials (Coffee)
• Perform physical and microbiological testing of finished products and other samples as required
• Update QA Weekly report
• Maintain SDS Sheets for lab chemicals
• Perform ATP swabs analysis to verify sanitation procedures
• Participate in testing (physical, microbiological, and organoleptic) for R&D projects
• Perform duties as assigned in the areas of Food Safety, Preventive Controls and Food Defense

Qualifications

• Bachelor of Science degree in scientific discipline
• 5+ years QA experience in a manufacturing/production setting strongly preferred or equivalent combination of education and experience
• Acidified Foods Certified or have ability to achieve certification required
• HACCP certified
• PCQI certification or ability to become certified
• Microbiology Lab Experience Strongly Preferred
• Experience with standard laboratory equipment including pH meter, refractometer, hydrometer, automated titrator, density cup, etc.
• Computer skills to include use of Outlook, Word and Excel
• Sound communication and writing skills
• Sound math skills
• Lifting capacity of 50 lbs.
• Proven track record of responsibility and reliability
• Ability to work varied shifts as needed and weekends
• Ability to work with minimal direct supervision