QA Technician

GENERAL DESCRIPTION

The Quality Coordinator is responsible for supporting the development, implementation, and maintenance of the plant's Quality Management Systems (QMS) in a food manufacturing environment. Reporting to the VP Plant Manager and Director of Operations, this role ensures all documentation, processes, and procedures meet food safety regulations and quality standards. The Quality Coordinator leads internal audits, supports third-party and regulatory inspections, and assists in training staff on quality and food safety programs, including HACCP and GMPs.
This role is critical in driving a culture of quality, compliance, and continuous improvement across all departments.

TASKS & RESPONSIBILITIES
• Reports to QA Manager
• This position is responsible for assisting in management, understanding, and managing the documentation of processes and procedures related to Quality Management Systems in a food manufacturing plant.
• Control and manage documentation (Review, update, electronic filing).
• Assures that all documentation is completed in accordance with written specifications, instructions and requirements.
• Develops and oversees the implementation of, maintains and audits comprehensive quality and food safety programs, including all Food Safety (HACCP) and Food Quality Plans, policies, and programs.
• Responsible for verification and validation of all Food Safety PRPs
• Schedule, participate in, and document meetings and internal audits.
• Participate in third party and regulatory audits as quality team leader.
• Work closely with department heads to ensure timely execution of tasks related to quality program standards.
• Assign, log and follow up on corrective actions as needed.
• Assist with writing standard operating procedures, work instructions, product specifications.
• Track, Report, and review quality performance indicators to report to management.
• Assist with maintaining client and regulatory relationships and inspections.
• Assist with customer/consumer complaint investigation and resolution.
• Train production personnel in Quality Assurance Department
• Substitute in case of absence: Director of Operations

SKILLS REQUIREMENTS
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Knowledge of food safety systems, HACCP, GMPs, and regulatory requirements.
• Ability to work cross-functionally and follow up on corrective actions with multiple departments.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel) and document management systems.
• Analytical skills to track quality metrics and recommend improvements.
• Strong problem-solving and time-management abilities.

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS
• Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Quality Assurance, or a related field (or equivalent experience).
• 2-4 years of experience in a food manufacturing or quality assurance environment.
• Experience with HACCP, internal auditing, and QMS documentation.
• Experience participating in third-party and regulatory audits preferred.
• HACCP certification or similar food safety training preferred.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods (6-8 hours) at the production floor
• Frequent use of computer equipment, including repetitive motion of hands and wrists for typing and data entry.
• Occasional walking within office and manufacturing areas; may include climbing stairs.
• Ability to lift and carry office materials or equipment up to 50 lbs occasionally (e.g., files, laptops, supplies).
• Must be able to safely navigate a manufacturing floor when needed (e.g., during meetings, audits, or inspections).
• Exposure to standard office conditions, with occasional exposure to manufacturing environment (noise, moving machinery, temperature variations) during facility visits.
• Required to adhere to all safety protocols when entering production areas, including the use of designated personal protective equipment (PPE) as mandated by company policies.
• Ability to maintain focus and perform in a fast-paced, deadline-driven corporate environment.