QA Technician I

Summary Of Functions

The Quality Assurance Technician is responsible for analytical and microbiological evaluations of all raw, pasteurized, and final products. Always adheres to all USDA, FDA, AOAC, GFSI, GMP, safety regulations, as well as company rules.

Essential Duties And Responsibilities

• Operate all testing equipment including, but not limited to spectrometer, FTIR analyzer, moisture analyzers, pH meter, burets, beta & aflatoxin analyzers, chlorine analyzer, pipettors, and various laboratory testing equipment.
• All equipment is to be operated in a safe, efficient, and sanitary manner.
• Perform daily quality audits and checks on plant floor as assigned.
• Fill out required worksheets and logs, either electronically or paper form in an accurate manner.
• Maintain all results and report in a confidential manner in accordance with the Company Letter of Confidentiality.
• Responsible for maintaining a clean, orderly, and neat work area.
• Maintain all laboratories stocked with necessary supplies.
• Responsible for quality related tasks such as certificates of analysis.
• Communication of results to the proper individuals in a timely, confidential, and professional manner.
• Preparation of all solutions and media required in the performance of all laboratory tests.
• Recognize and notify FSQA Supervisor, FS Coordinator, FSQA Manager, and appropriate production supervisors of any unusual results or product defects.
• Aid in training of new Quality Assurance personnel.
• Aid in the calibrations, troubleshooting, and functionality of lab equipment.
• Be proficient in the performance of the following:
  • Inhibitory test
  • Total solids/Moisture Analysis
  • Inventory sample analysis
  • Powder test for scorched particle, and moisture
  • Whey Protein Nitrogen Index test (WPNI)
  • Bacteria test (Aerobic Plate Count, Coli, and Yeast & Mold)
  • Obtain proper series samples as required.
  • Compositing samples for third party testing.
  • Proper identification of outgoing samples for third party testing.
  • Report immediately to supervision any damage, irregular activity, or unsafe conditions concerning the equipment.
  • Follow all safety, work, and Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) rules.
  • Aid in execution of plant environmental monitoring program.
  • Aid in the investigation of plant incidents and out of specification products.
• Other duties as assigned by management.

Knowledge, Skills, And Abilities Required

• Must work in a safe, efficient manner and follow all safety procedures including the use of safety equipment.
• Must have the ability to troubleshoot small problems and be able to discern when issues may require input from levels of authority within the corporation.
• Must be willing to ask for assistance when the process is unclear.

Education And/Or Experience

• Bachelor of Science Degree in Dairy Science, Microbiology, Food Science, Chemistry or related field or comparable experience in dairy laboratory testing in five (5) out of the last ten (10) years.

Certificates, Licenses, Registrations

• Must be able to acquire a Certified Sampler license by the state regulatory agency.
• Must be able to be licensed as Certified Industry Analyst in accordance with the Pasteurized Milk Ordinance (current edition) and state regulatory agency.

Benefits

• Competitive Pay
• Medical
• Dental
• Vision
• Short-Term & Long-Term Disability
• Life Insurance
• Flexible Spending
• 401k with a company match.

Position Location

Coopersville, Michigan

Reports To

Food Safety Quality Assurance (FSQA) Supervisor

Exempt/Non-Exempt

Non-Exempt

EEO/Affirmative Action Employer

Continental Dairy Facilities, LLC maintains a continuing policy of nondiscrimination in all employment practices and decisions, ensuring equal employment opportunities for all qualified individuals without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, veteran status, genetic information, or any other protected status.