Quality Tech (Quality Technician)

The Quality Technician is responsible for supporting the quality of the operations within the manufacturing site. This includes providing quality support and inspection for incoming materials, product manufacture, and finished product shipping. The Quality Technician performs all job responsibilities following cGMP guidelines and practices. Job Responsibilities: The Quality Technician is responsible for the day to day quality oversight and routine inspection of the entire manufacturing operation from incoming raw materials, through product manufacturing, to finished product shipping. The individual works closely with production, warehouse, and operation personnel to assure shipping/receiving, production and sanitation activities meet the highest quality expectations under the supervision of Quality Assurance Manager. Duties and Day-to-Day Responsibilities, but not limited to the following: - Reviews incoming material receipts for compliance including verification of net weight statements, proper product labeling identification, and allergen statements. - Performs various aspects of sample collection including selection of sampling equipment, weighing of samples, and thorough documentation practices. - Collection of pre-shipment samples for chemical, physical and microbiological testing by the site analytical testing laboratory - Analysis and recording/plotting of Quality Control samples and data. - Recording of samples upon delivery to labs. - Conducts pre-operative inspections including ATP swabbing. Responsible for QA release of manufacturing rooms to production. - Takes environmental monitoring swabbing and allergen verification sampling. - Conducts allergen verification testing. - Conducts HACCP reviews and verification activities. - Provides support and input to production personnel to verify and validate production methods for specific products. - Assists in investigation of non-conforming material events. - Performs packaging, labeling and finished product outgoing quality checks. - Responsible for outgoing trailer inspections and documentation. - Assists in training operation personals for general concepts of cGMP and food safety. - Assists facility Quality Assurance Manager for closing production records and other quality and food safety related duties. - Performs other duties as assigned. Minimum Training, Education, and Experience Requirements: Associated Degree in a science related field; High School Diploma and a minimum of two years experience in quality role within a science-based environment; and/or an equivalent combination of education and experience. - Possess a working knowledge of manufacturing operations and quality assurance programs including batching, batch verification, and blending procedures. - Experience with measuring equipment and devices, data entry, and data analysis. - Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite of applications including Outlook and Excel. Behavior Competencies: To perform the job successfully, the individual must demonstrate the following competencies: Problem Solving - Identifies and resolves problems in a timely manner; Gathers and analyzes information skillfully; Develops alternative solutions; Works well in-group problem solving situations; Uses reason even when dealing with emotional topics. Technical Skills - Pursues training and development opportunities; Strives to continuously build knowledge and skills; Shares expertise with others. Ethics - Treats people with respect; Keeps commitments; Inspires the trust of others; Works with integrity and ethically; Upholds organizational values. Judgment - Displays willingness to make decisions; Exhibits sound and accurate judgment; Supports and explains reasoning for decisions; Includes appropriate people in decision-making process; Makes timely decisions. Planning/Organizing - Prioritizes and plans work activities; Uses time effi iently; Sets goals and objectives; Organizes or schedules other people and their tasks. Professionalism - Approaches others in a tactful manner; Reacts well under pressure; Treats others with respect and consideration regardless of their status or position; Accepts responsibility for own actions; Follows through on commitments. Quality - Demonstrates accuracy and thoroughness; Looks for ways to improve and promote quality; Applies feedback to improve performance; Monitors own work to ensure quality. Quantity - Meets productivity standards; Completes work in timely manner; Strives to increase productivity; Works quickly. Attendance/Punctuality - Is consistently at work and on time; Ensures work responsibilities are covered when absent; Arrives at meetings and appointments on time. Dependability - Follows instructions, responds to management direction; Takes responsibility for own actions; Keeps commitments; Commits to long hours of work when necessary to reach goals; Completes tasks on time or notifies appropriate person with an alternate plan. Initiative - Volunteers readily; Undertakes self-development activities; Seeks increased responsibilities; Looks for and takes advantage of opportunities; Asks for and offers help when needed. Work Environment: The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job: - Manufacturing environment. - Standing for long periods of time. - Ability to manage a fast-paced operation that can run 24/7. - Exposure to chemical odors and airborne particles may be encountered. May include handling of hazardous chemicals including caustics, acids and flammable hydrocarbons. - The noise level in the work environment is usually quiet. - Employees are required to wear steel toed boots/shoes, safety glasses and a hard hat.