QA and Safety Technician

QA and Safety Technician

Job Title: Quality Assurance & Safety Technician

Department: Compliance

Reports To: Director of Quality Assurance

Location: Tucson, AZ - Production Facility

Job Type: Full-Time

Position Summary

The Quality Assurance Technician is responsible for supporting daily food safety and quality operations on the production floor. This includes conducting inspections, collecting samples, verifying records, and enforcing Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs). The QA Technician plays a key role in monitoring compliance with regulatory standards, internal policies, and customer specifications. This position reports to the Director of Quality Assurance and works closely with production staff to ensure the consistent quality and safety of Tucson Foods products.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Quality Assurance

• Perform routine quality and food safety checks on raw materials, work-in-progress, and finished goods.
• Verify compliance with HACCP, GMPs, allergen control, sanitation, labeling, and traceability standards.
• Accurately document inspection results, test data, and deviations using established forms and logs.
• Conduct pre-operational inspections, production line audits, and environmental monitoring as needed.
• Collect product and environmental samples for microbiological and analytical testing.
• Assist with the investigation of quality issues and customer complaints; document findings and corrective actions.
• Support internal audits and third-party inspections by maintaining organized records and documentation.
• Communicate food safety concerns or non-conformances to the Director of QA or appropriate leadership promptly.
• Help train production staff on basic food safety and quality practices when needed.
• Ensure QA tools (thermometers, scales, swabs, etc.) are properly calibrated, cleaned, and maintained.
• Promote a strong food safety culture by modeling compliance and attention to detail on the floor.

Safety

• Actively participate in facility safety programs and promote a culture of safety.
• Monitor production areas to ensure compliance with OSHA, GMPs, and company safety policies.
• Assist with safety inspections, incident investigations, and follow-up corrective actions.
• Support training efforts on proper use of PPE, chemical handling, equipment safety, and safe work practices.
• Identify and report unsafe conditions, near misses, and potential hazards in a timely manner.
• Help maintain documentation related to safety programs, including Safety Data Sheet records, safety audits, and safety meeting notes.

Qualifications

Required:

• 1+ year of experience in a food manufacturing, commercial kitchen, or QA/QC role
• Basic understanding of food safety principles and GMPs
• Ability to accurately follow procedures and complete documentation
• Strong communication and observation skills
• Dependable, detail-oriented, and able to work independently
• Ability to read and write in English; basic math skills

Preferred:

• Prior experience with HACCP, SQF/BRC, or food safety programs
• Bilingual (English/Spanish)
• Experience using digital QA systems or databases

Physical Requirements

• Able to lift and carry up to 40 lbs regularly
• Stand, walk, bend, and climb for extended periods throughout the shift
• Comfortable working in hot, cold, or humid environments
• Use of hands and fingers for repetitive tasks such as writing, swabbing, and packaging inspection

Work Environment

The QA Technician works primarily on the production floor in a commercial food manufacturing facility. The environment may include variable temperatures and exposure to moving equipment, loud noise, and strong food aromas. PPE (personal protective equipment) is required.

Company Expectations

• Follow all food safety, hygiene, allergen control, and sanitation procedures
• Demonstrate accuracy, timeliness, and professionalism
• Report food safety issues or equipment concerns immediately
• Comply with all GMP and company policies
• Maintain a clean, organized, and respectful work area

Shift & Availability

• Shifts vary based on production schedule and may include early mornings, evenings, weekends, or holidays
• Full-time, on-site position

Compensation and Benefits

• Hourly wage based on experience
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance (for eligible employees)
• Paid time off and paid holidays
• Referral bonus program
• Supportive team culture-and tasty tamales every day!

Equal Opportunity Statement

Tucson Foods is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status.