Quality Control Technician

Quality Control technician --> Assistant Manager Bartlett, IL | Full-Time | On-SITE| Travel: 5% Office hours 8am-5pm but must be flexible with needs of business (audits, supervisor support, etc..). This is not a desk-based role. We’re looking for someone who enjoys being on the production floor, and partnering closely with Production and Operations to maintain high-quality standards. SPANISH and BACHELOR'S DEGREE ARE MANDATORY POSITION SUMMARY Our client is a global food manufacturing company, leader in fresh refrigerated food products. We are seeking a experienced Quality Control Technician--> Assistant Manager to support the Quality Control Manager in leading in-plant Quality Control operations within a USDA-regulated food manufacturing environment . This position serves as the second-in-command of the Quality Control department, providing day-to-day leadership across multiple production buildings while ensuring consistent execution of quality standards, regulatory compliance, and food safety requirements. The ideal candidate is a hands-on leader with strong USDA experience who enjoys spending time on the production floor, coaching Quality Control teams, and serving as the primary backup to the Quality Control Manager during USDA audits, inspections, and departmental leadership activities. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES Quality Control Operations Support the Quality Control Manager in overseeing daily QC operations across multiple production buildings and shifts. Assist in ensuring consistent execution of Quality Control activities across all shifts. Maintain a strong floor presence to verify QC inspections are completed accurately, on schedule, and in accordance with established procedures. Promote consistency in inspection methods, documentation practices, and quality expectations across all production areas. In-Process Quality Control Support oversight of in-process quality checks, including: Product weights Coding and labeling accuracy CCP verification Product compliance with specifications Ensure products consistently meet quality standards and regulatory requirements. Assist in leading foreign material prevention, detection, and management programs across all production areas. Support validation and verification of: Metal detectors X-ray systems Sieves Filters Magnets Visual inspection programs Assist with root cause investigations and implementation of corrective actions for foreign material incidents. Partner with Operations and Maintenance to eliminate contamination risks and implement preventive solutions. Deviation & Product Disposition Support the Quality Control Manager as an escalation point for product holds, process deviations, and non-conforming materials. Assist in making product disposition decisions (hold, release, or rework) based on QC results and product specifications. Lead or support investigations into quality defects and non-conformances. Monitor recurring quality issues and collaborate with Production to implement corrective and preventive actions. Documentation & Regulatory Compliance Ensure QC records, production logs, and inspection documents are completed accurately and in real time. Maintain compliance with USDA regulations and internal quality standards. Support audit readiness by ensuring documentation and QC programs remain inspection-ready. Support and lead USDA audits when delegated, serving as the primary QA/QC representative in the absence of the Quality Control Manager. Cross-Functional Collaboration Partner closely with Production to resolve quality issues while maintaining operational efficiency. Support effective shift handoffs to ensure continuity of Quality Control activities. Foster strong collaboration between QC and Operations teams. Support departmental initiatives and other responsibilities as assigned by the Quality Control Manager. QUALIFICATIONS Required Bachelor's degree in Food Science or a related field. HACCP Certification. 5–7 years of Quality Control experience within food manufacturing. Experience in a USDA-regulated manufacturing environment. Expertise in foreign material prevention, detection technologies , and incident management. Strong knowledge of: In-process quality controls Product specifications Manufacturing quality systems Previous leadership experience managing Quality Control teams in a fast-paced manufacturing environment. Strong troubleshooting, decision-making, organizational, and communication skills. Fluent in Spanish is mandatory Preferred Master's degree. PCQI Certification , or equivalent experience leading Food Safety Plans and supplier quality programs. Experience with fresh refrigerated and ready-to-cook food products. Experience supporting high-volume and/or multi-building manufacturing operations. BENEFITS: ABS: DOE + 15% bonus 401k PTO STD/LTD Life insurance