QA Technician

Schedule

6 pm – 6:30 am on a 2‑2‑3 schedule.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Provide support to the Laboratory department by performing and/or coordinating a variety of laboratory processes.
• Register and prepare samples for general analytical testing through data entry, weighing and physical homogenization.
• Prep and perform routine to more complex analyses per approved methods.
• Accurately read and record results of analyses, ensuring identification numbers are matched with correct samples.
• Effectively and efficiently operate basic laboratory equipment such as balances, pH meter, colorimeter, spectrophotometer, autoclave, evaporator, etc.
• Prepare and assure the accuracy of standards, reagents, etc. needed for analyses.
• Acid wash glassware and specially clean other equipment and areas as required.
• Function as primary data generator; record and calculate data; sign assay sheets.
• Perform routine lab and department maintenance to keep area clean and orderly.
• Conduct preliminary interpretations of data or observations, and draft short reports to the Manager.
• Complete assignments in a timely, diligent, and safe manner; performing work in accordance with SOPs.
• Ensure quality of results by assisting with establishment and maintenance of Quality Assurance/Quality Control documents, plans and ICPs.
• Document QA/QC data and report to lead or management.
• Ensure equipment is maintained in reliable working order; make repairs or modifications as able or request repairs in a timely manner.
• Effectively and efficiently perform chemistry, physical, and/or microbiology sample preparation and testing.

Other Duties and Responsibilities

• Troubleshoot issues or concerns with management.
• Understand and adhere to Good Manufacturing Practices and Good Laboratory Practices.
• Work with dairy and nut products in addition to other related ingredients and allergens.

Safety Protocol

• Stop any observed unsafe acts and obey facility safety rules and procedures.
• Correct or report any observed safety hazards.
• Support safety policies and programs.

Qualifications

Education: High School Diploma or GED (preferred). Associate’s Degree or coursework in Food Science, Chemistry, or Biology (preferred). Equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered.

Experience: Minimum one (1) year of experience in the food production industry or a related quality or laboratory field (preferred). Experience with both metric and standard systems of measurement (preferred).

Skills

• Ability to read, understand, and follow documents and procedures (GLP, SOP, MSDS, GMP, test procedures, and HACCP).
• Ability to work in a fast‑paced environment.
• Demonstrate attention to detail, quality and cleanliness in work.
• Excellent organizational skills; establish priorities, multitask, and meet deadlines.
• Effective verbal and written communication with supervisors, colleagues, and external contacts.
• Follow one‑ or two‑step verbal instructions; read and follow written instructions; perform routine, repetitive tasks and detailed but uncomplicated instructions.
• Basic computer skills with Microsoft Excel, PowerPoint, Word, Outlook, and field‑specific software.
• Basic math including fractions, decimals, percentages, and algebraic calculations.
• Results‑driven, bottom‑line oriented; strive to exceed goals and motivate self and others.
• Functional and technical knowledge; ability to learn new skills quickly and achieve a high level of accomplishment.
• Ability to extract, analyze, and act on information with limited supervisory input.
• Dedication to meet internal and external customer expectations; act with customers in mind.
• Professional demeanor and ability to maintain constructive working relationships.
• Ability to lift up to 50 + lb.
• Must complete and pass required Wonderlic test.

Benefits

• Two retirement benefits: Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) from day one, plus an 8 % 401(k) match into the ESOP and additional company contributions.
• Bonus pay with incentive opportunities twice a year when company goals are met.
• Personal Time Off (PTO) starting on day one.
• Childcare assistance: up to $5,000 annually, with monthly contributions toward childcare expenses, including independent babysitters.
• Wellness Incentive and employer‑funded Lifestyle Spending Account (LSA) for fitness, mental health, and other lifestyle expenses.
• Tuition reimbursement for further education.
• Medical, prescription drug, dental, vision, pet, and mental health benefits starting day one.
• Partners Helping Partners program for employee‑driven support and fundraisers.
• Comprehensive benefits supporting health, wellbeing, and financial future.