Quality Technician

Job Family: Plant Quality Assurance • 6:00 AM – 6:30 PM on a 2-2-3 schedule (C Crew)

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.
• Prepare 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.
• 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 Manager.
• Complete assignments in a timely, diligent, and safe manner; perform 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.
• Perform chemistry, physical, and/or microbiology sample preparation and testing.
• 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.
• Stop any observed unsafe acts and obey facility safety rules and procedures.
• Correct or report any observed safety hazards.
• Support safety policies and programs.

Requirements

• High School Diploma or GED (required).
• Associate’s Degree or some coursework in Food Science, Chemistry, or Biology (preferred).
• Equivalent combination of education and/or experience may be considered.
• Minimum one (1) year of experience in the food production industry or in a related quality or laboratory field (preferred).
• Experience with both metric and standard systems of measurement (preferred).
• 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.
• Attention to detail, quality, and cleanliness in work.
• Excellent organizational skills, ability to establish priorities, multitask, and meet deadlines.
• Effective verbal and written communication with supervisors, colleagues, and individuals inside and outside the organization.
• Ability to follow one- or two-step verbal instructions; read and follow written instructions; perform routine and repetitive tasks.
• Basic computer skills with Microsoft Excel, PowerPoint, Word, Outlook, and field-specific software.
• Basic math skills including fractions, decimals, percentages, and algebraic calculations.
• Results-driven, bottom-line oriented, and ability to motivate self and others to achieve positive outcomes.
• 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 the expectations and requirements of internal and external customers; acts with customers in mind.
• Professional manner in dealing with others and ability to maintain constructive working relationships.
• Able to lift up to 50+ lbs.
• Must complete and pass required Wonderlic test.

Benefits

• Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) from day one, plus an 8% 401(k) match.
• Annual company contributions toward retirement.
• Opportunity to earn incentive pay twice a year when company goals are met.
• Personal Time Off (PTO) starting on day one.
• Up to $5,000 annually to help with childcare costs, 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 relevant to your role.
• Medical, prescription drug, dental, vision, pet, and mental health benefits starting day one.
• Partners Helping Partners program: employee-organized fundraisers to support colleagues in need.