Quality Assurance Technician

Quality Control TechnicianPerforms physical and chemical analysis on raw materials and food products from various stages of the manufacturing process, as directed by the Quality Assurance Manager and QA Leader. Accuracy, reliability, and expediency are essential to successful completion of the duties of a Quality Control Technician.Essential Functions:Collects samples for analysis and distributes them appropriatelyPerforms chemical and physical analysis (including flavor checks) on product, ingredient and control samples according to laboratory procedures; needs to understand the concepts of each analysis, anticipate the result and follow through on any deviationRecords all product analysis according to laboratory protocols including data entry on a computer system (Falsifying a QC record will result in disciplinary action)Communicates effectively all critical information regarding analysis, procedures, and test results; handwriting must be clearly legibleMust clean and maintain all equipment/materials used; cleans up the lab area at the end of shiftFollows all laboratory and plant GMP and safety procedures according to company guidelinesProvides written reports when requested by Quality Assurance Manager and/or QA LeaderGeneral plant QA responsibilities may include (but are not limited to): collection and distribution of product and ingredient samples, collection of environmental samples, maintaining insect lights and pest boxesCovers all lab responsibilities during the absence of the Quality Assurance LeaderPerforms all other duties as requested by management staffRequirements:To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty independently and satisfactorilyMust be familiar with excel, Microsoft Word and Outlook.Must have experience in testing and recording test results.Must be able to work in a timely manner and be able to communicate results of tests quickly and accurately.Science background preferred and experience operating scientific equipment a plus.Ability to interpret and apply commonsense in order to carry out instructions in written, oral, and diagram form.Ability to interact with and communicate issues to production personnel and management team.Must be able to work independently – to organize tasks and manage the workloadAbility to deal with problems involving several variables in standardized situationsMust be able to do mathematical calculationsWorking Conditions:Must be able to work on their feet for extended periods of timeWill be required to lift and carry large boxes full of samples up several flights of stairs and throughout the plantThe plant environment involves working in noisy, wet, slippery and hot conditionsWill be working with hazardous chemicalsHours as needed by the companyThe laboratory will be staffed on off shifts and weekend/holiday hours may be required due to the variable nature of our business