QA Technician

Location: Chicago Heights, IL, US, 60411 Rich’s, also known as Rich Products Corporation, is a family‑owned food company dedicated to inspiring possibilities. From cakes and icings to pizza, appetizers and specialty toppings, our products are used in homes, restaurants and bakeries around the world. Beyond great food, our customers also gain insights to help them stay competitive, no matter their size. Our portfolio includes creative solutions geared at helping food industry professionals compete in foodservice, retail, in‑store bakery, deli, and prepared foods, among others. With more than 13,500 associates working globally in 100 countries and annual sales of $5.9 billion, Rich’s is a global leader with a focus on everything that family makes possible. Rich’s®—Infinite Possibilities. One Family. Purpose Statement The QA Technician's purpose is to assure food safety through HACCP compliance monitoring, implementing corrective actions and reporting of deviations to the QA Manager. Document test results, communicate deviations with management and co‑associates. Review data and direct follow‑up of product testing deviations and trends to meet customer requirements. Conduct product and process capability studies as directed by QA Manager or designate. Perform QA tasks including product sampling, line monitoring, auditing, lab testing and calibrations to ensure compliance to specifications. Coordinate lab operation, raw material, finished product and audit analytical data and reports for process improvements. Audit laboratory testing, analytical test methods and protocols for compliance with Standard Operating Procedure and Quality Assurance Agreement. Reviewing and approving deviation, investigations, and corrective and preventive action that is associated with analytical laboratories. Review and audit of microbiological testing and sanitation cleaning inspection reports. Place ingredients and finished goods on hold, as directed by the QA Manager/QA Team Leader. Investigate the root cause of defects in raw and finished products and implement corrective actions. Maintain and promote a quality culture through training. Maintain a well‑organized and clean work area. Maintain adequate inventory of supplies for lab audit laboratory testing, analytical test methods and protocols for compliance with Standard Operating Procedure and Quality Assurance Agreement. Coordinate timely hold and disposition of raw ingredients, packaging materials and finished product. Utilize PLM, QDMS, SAP and Minitab in support of business processes. Submit written reports on overall compliance, deviations and corrective actions implemented. Understanding of Acidified Foods and compliance to all federal guidelines. Knowledge, Skills, and Experience Bachelor’s Degree in Food Science, chemistry or biology related field required. Related work experience preferred but not required. Chemistry work related: Water activity, Free fatty acid testing, Viscosity, PH effect on Food, Brix, Concentration; Moisture analyses; allergen tests, Flour testing attributes. Microbiology work related: Knowledge of pathogens and its growth characteristics as it relates to food manufacturing and the facility. Bacterial growth requirement; Bacterial identification; Growth morphology; Temperature growth requirement; Bacterial food source. One year experience in commercial food processing preferred. PC skills to include strong knowledge of Windows operating system, and applications to include Microsoft Word and Excel. Knowledge of statistics and use of software packages. Knowledge of Database systems preferred. Ability to constructively deal with change and pressure. Willing to continue training/education as necessary. Ability to lift up to 50lbs. Ability to operate powered equipment. Ability to use a full range of motion in both arms, hands, and legs. Ability to taste. Ability to operate normal laboratory equipment. Must have understanding of microbiological contaminates. Must have complete understanding of shortenings, sugars, starches, gums, and particulates. COMPENSATION In accordance with state law, the rate or range provided is Rich Products Corporation, its subsidiaries and affiliates ("Rich's"), reasonable estimate of the base compensation for this role. The actual amount may be higher or lower, based on non‑discriminatory factors such as experience, knowledge, skills, abilities, shift differential, and location. Annual Range/Hourly Rate $17.50-$18.50 Rich Products Corporation, its subsidiaries and affiliates (“Rich’s”), are committed to a policy of Equal Employment Opportunity, standing up for fairness and maintaining a culture of belonging, to provide an exceptional experience for all. We will not discriminate against an applicant or employee on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, military or veteran status, or any other Federal or State legally protected classes. The information collected by this application is solely to determine suitability for employment, verify identity, and maintain employment statistics on applicants. Applicants with disabilities may be entitled to reasonable accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act and certain state or local laws. A reasonable accommodation is a change in the way things are normally done which will ensure an equal employment opportunity without imposing undue hardship on Rich’s. Please contact Rich’s Associate Experience Network at View email address on click.appcast.io if you need assistance completing this application or to otherwise participate in the application process. BRINGING YOUR BEST SELF TO WORK. As a family‑owned company, caring for our associates—their whole selves—is a top priority. That’s why we provide benefits and tools to help our people balance the integration of work and life: Competitive compensation Paid time off Parental leave Family planning support Associate resource groups Volunteering & community impact opportunities Holiday gatherings In‑house taste tests (we are a food company after all)! It’s all part of how we support our family of associates. #J-18808-Ljbffr