QA Specialist

Quality Assurance Specialist

Bilinski’s Sausage Mfg Co is looking for an QA Specialist at our busy meat manufacturing plant.

This is a great position for someone who is passionate about food, extremely detail-oriented, and an excellent multi-tasker.

Required: HACCP Certification, BA/BS degree, food industry experience

Preferred by not required: Meat industry experience

As a QA Specialist in the food manufacturing industry, your primary responsibility will be to ensure the production of safe, high-quality food products that meet regulatory standards and customer expectations. You will work closely with the Quality Assurance (QA) team and other production personnel to implement and maintain quality control processes throughout the manufacturing process.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Quality Control Inspections: Conduct routine inspections and audits of raw materials, production lines, finished products and processes to ensure compliance with quality and safety standards.
2. Documentation and Recordkeeping: Maintain accurate and up-to-date records of quality control tests, inspections, and corrective actions taken. Prepare reports on quality-related issues and provide recommendations for improvement.
3. Sampling and Testing: Collect samples from different stages of the production process for laboratory analysis. Perform various tests such as microbiological, chemical, physical and sensory tests to identify any deviations from established standards.
4. Compliance Monitoring: Monitor adherence to regulatory requirements, industry standards, and internal quality control procedures. Stay updated on relevant regulations and guidelines, such as those from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) or the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA).
5. Non-Conformance Management: Identify and report non-conformances, defects, or deviations from quality standards. Work closely with production staff to investigate root causes and implement corrective actions to prevent recurrence.
6. Training and Support: Provide training and guidance to production line workers on quality control processes, standards, and best practices. Foster a culture of quality awareness and continuous improvement within the organization.
7. Supplier Management: Collaborate with the procurement team to evaluate and qualify suppliers based on quality criteria. Conduct supplier risk assessment and monitor supplier performance to ensure compliance with quality standards.
8. Pre-shipment Review: Conduct pre-shipment review along with sensory analysis.
9. Continuous Improvement: Participate in cross-functional teams to identify opportunities for process improvement, waste reduction, and cost optimization. Implement quality improvement initiatives and monitor their effectiveness.

Qualifications and Skills:

• A Bachelor’s or higher degree or certification in food science, quality assurance, or a related field is desirable.
• HACCP, PCQI, SQF certification will be preferred.
• Previous experience in a quality control or QA role within the food manufacturing industry is preferred.
• Good understanding of food safety regulations, quality control principles, and industry best practices.
• Familiarity with laboratory testing equipment and procedures.
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy in performing inspections and tests.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Proficiency in using computer software for documentation and recordkeeping.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment, prioritize tasks, and meet deadlines.
• Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to work collaboratively with cross-functional teams.

• This position requires Saturday Shift availability with (2) days off during the week.

  It is approximately 70% administrative and 30% on the production floor conducting audits and inspections.

• Benefits include: 

  • Health insurance (participatory)
  • Dental/Vision insurance
  • Paid time off 
  • Simple IRA

  Salary Range: $60k-$70k based on experience.

Note: This job description serves as a general overview and may be subject to modifications based on the specific requirements of the company and the position.