QA Specialist (Food Industry - 3rd shift)

Quality Assurance Specialist I Location: Waukegan, IL Schedule: 3rd shift 9:00 PM–6:00 AM M-F (1 hour lunch) Employment Type: Considering candidates for both 6 month contract-to-hire and direct hire Pay: Base pay around $24-25/hr + $1.50/hr for 3rd shift Position Overview We are seeking a Quality Assurance Specialist I to support quality and food safety activities within a fast-paced food manufacturing environment. This is a hands-on role that works closely with production, processing, packaging, sanitation, and maintenance teams to ensure products meet established quality and food safety standards. This is an excellent opportunity for someone looking to build their career in Quality Assurance. A bachelor's degree is preferred but not required, and candidates with a high school diploma and relevant laboratory, quality, food manufacturing, or production experience will be considered. Key Responsibilities Perform routine QA checks across processing, blending, and packaging operations.Monitor multiple production lines and verify products meet established quality specifications.Collect product samples and perform in-house testing, including moisture, size, water activity/density, and sensory evaluations such as appearance and taste.Inspect packaging, product codes, labels, and associated documentation for accuracy.Place products on hold when specifications or quality requirements are not met and assist with product release following approval.Perform ATP swabbing and support allergen control and sanitation verification activities.Conduct pre-operational inspections and inspect production equipment for quality or food safety concerns.Support quality and food safety audits and assist with investigation of potential quality issues.Collect, maintain, and archive product samples and documentation.Support Certificate of Analysis (COA) sampling and related QA documentation.Perform gluten testing on gluten-free products and production lines.Work closely with Production, Maintenance, Sanitation, and other departments to address quality concerns.Maintain accurate QA records and follow all GMP, food safety, quality, and sanitation requirements. Qualifications High school diploma required; bachelor's degree in Biology, Chemistry, Food Science, or a related scientific field preferred.Previous experience in quality, laboratory testing, food manufacturing, production, or a related environment is preferred.Strong attention to detail and ability to identify and investigate potential quality issues.Comfortable working independently with minimal supervision.Strong organizational, communication, and documentation skills.Basic proficiency with Microsoft Word and Excel.Knowledge of GMPs and food safety regulations such as FDA, FSMA, or GFSI is a plus.Experience with inventory systems is a plus.Spanish/English bilingual skills are a plus but not required.Ability to lift up to 55 lbs.Must be flexible to work overtime and occasional Saturdays as needed. Work Environment This is a 100% onsite position within a food manufacturing environment. The QA Specialist will spend significant time on the production floor and may be responsible for independently supporting QA activities during portions of the shift. The role requires regular standing and walking throughout production areas, along with occasional lifting and bending. #INDBH