QA Analyst II

Overview

Samples product and performs all physical and chemical tests outlined in the Quality Assurance manual.  Maintains requirements for proper lab operation.  Must perform the essential functions of a Quality Assurance Analyst I plus the additional essential functions as listed below.

Shift: Mon - Fri - 5a - 1:30p.

Responsibilities

Essential Functions/Primary Responsibilities:

• Demonstrates understanding of key ingredient functionality, processing functions and product attributes.
• Organizes and interprets data; creates reports, graphs, and/or spreadsheets based on data interpretation.
• Organizes special projects which may include customer requirements, shelf life studies, etc.
• Trains new employees on-the-job.
• Troubleshoots quality assurance issues and suggests solutions.
• Monitors and recommends disposition of returned goods.
• Provides recommendations to correct recurring problems and for continuous improvement.
• Communicates with QA Analysts and QA Assistants and reports any issues/problems to QA Manager.
• Reports processing and/or packaging line problems or potential problems immediately to Production Manager and QA Manager and assisting with problem resolution.
• Collects retain samples at prescribed frequency and maintains samples in an organized fashion.
• Maintains adequate inventory of lab prepared colors and flavors.
• Maintains lab work area in a clean and orderly fashion; performs calibration of lab equipment when assigned.
• Monitors critical control points (CCPs) for pH, water activity and metal detection.
• Follows and maintains awareness of plant Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs) and reports anything which might have a negative affect on products or company image.
• Follows Good Laboratory Practices (GLPs) established by QA Manager and safety guidelines established by plant management.
• Ensures compliance to quality, food safety, 5S, OSHA and HACCP support programs; assures conformity to all company, customer and government standards.
• Serve as a Qualified Individual as part of the plant’s Food Safety Plan, including monitoring and verification activities related to process control and preventive control measures.
• Responsible for process control measures, including pH testing, Water Activity Testing, and Metal Detection, and preventive control measures including verification of Allergen and Sanitation Cleaning via swabs, proper Supply Chain controls, and proper Allergen Labeling.

Qualifications

Qualification Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree in Food Science, Microbiology, or related field preferred.
• At least one year experience as a Quality Assurance Analyst I.
• Basic knowledge of food science and microbiology.
• Ability to work cooperatively with a team and demonstrate versatility.
• Strong oral and written communication skills and computer skills required.

Working Conditions/Environment

Works in a laboratory and manufacturing environment where the employee is regularly required to speak, read, sit, stand, walk, climb, crouch, lift, reach, grasp and bend while moving about the facility.   Requires some lifting of moderately heavy items such as test equipment and product cases.  Must be able to stand for an 8-12 hour shift (sometimes longer) with regular breaks while performing repetitive tasks.  May be required to work overtime and/or weekends as needed.  The employee may be exposed to non-ambient temperatures, odors, dust, oil, slippery floors, moving parts/equipment, and handling of hazardous testing and sanitation chemicals.  The noise level in the lab is moderate and loud in the plant.  Ear protection, eye/face protection, hair/beard nets, steel-toed/slip-resistant shoes, and gloves are required as necessary in accordance with company GMP and safety standards.