Quality Assistant

Position Summary

Provides quality compliance and control oversight during receiving, handling, production, packing, holding and distribution of ingredients and finished goods. Job involves observing, inspecting, sampling, sorting, receiving, cataloging raw materials, in-process product and finished batches. Ensures accurate and timely inspection of in-process documentation, and production equipment. Assists with equipment cleanliness and sanitation compliance. Accurate record keeping for GMPs (SOP compliance) is essential.  Works to ensure product meets quality standards from beginning to end of manufacturing process.    

Responsibilities will include:

1. Documentation is the primary function.  Documentation and record keeping of quality related activities critical. Includes formulation checks, observation of physical weighing and measuring, labeling (in-process and finished), cleanliness, monitoring of environmental and other processes that may affect product quality.  Ensures all required SOP records for equipment, plant and grounds, processes, etc. and other documentation is completed in a timely manner according to requirements and provided to the QC unit for review and retention.

2. Individual must be familiar with all aspects of production and machinery: blenders, grinders, hot water, furnaces, racks, air handling/filtration, etc. and familiar with the use of laboratory measuring instruments and testing equipment such as calibration of scales, pH meters etc.  Process specific training provided, but experience is a plus.

3. Review work instructions and related documents (HACCP, PSV etc.) for each batch and ensure compliance with work instructions and all applicable SOPs during receiving, handling, production, packing, holding and shipping of ingredients and related products.

4. Confirm equipment cleanliness /readiness. Perform swab testing on blenders, grinders, or as otherwise needed for allergens (soy and yeast).  Additionally, individual will be swabbing for protein (sanitization) and other contaminants as well as confirming proper concentration of cleaning and sanitizing agents using appropriate methods.

5. Report to QC, Production Supervisor and upper management any deviations and/or deficiency in conforming to SOPs. Support QA, QC and operations with inspections, sampling, releasing raw materials and products and other activities as needed. Attend weekly QC meeting as member of the QC team.

6. Perform in-house tests on raw materials, in process materials and finished goods as necessary. Maintenance of in-house standards (visual library), retain product samples, assist in customer sample requests etc. as necessary.

7. Follow all safety policies and ensure work environment is free of safety hazards as well as recommend improvements to EHS manager.

8. Individual will serve as a resource for the production team in relation to all quality standards, QC training, QC questions and other needs as necessary.

Required Experience & Knowledge

Requires basic mathematical proficiency, the ability to clearly communicate in spoken and written English. Basic computer literacy is required. Punctuality and strong work ethic is essential.  Additional quality certifications are beneficial (i.e. HACCP, etc..).

• Education and/or Experience:  High School Diploma or general education degree (GED); one year related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Ability to communicate using verbal, written and electronic methods as well as complete documentation in template form required (i.e. ability to communicate via email/text and complete Word templates).
• Mathematical Skills:  Ability to add, subtract, multiply, and divide in all units of measure using whole numbers, common fractions and decimals.  Ability to use scales and understand values.

Physical Demand

• Ability to lift and carry up to 55 pounds.
• Capable of standing, walking, and bending for extended periods.
• Comfortable working in varying temperatures and conditions within the facility.

Work Environment

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job.  Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.  The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.