QA Specialist at Faribault Foods, Inc. in Tucson, Arizona

Job Description:

SUMMARY: As part of the Quality Assurance Team, the QA Specialist is responsible for providing support and direction for implementing the Quality Assurance Program for the manufacture of Arizona Canning Company products. Support the QA Manager in the identification of quality related issues. Report quality trends to the QA Manager, while supporting the plant objectives of quality, efficiency, safety, productivity, and customer service
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: include the following. Other duties may be assigned.

Direct and develop the environmental and in-process microbiological testing program using approved protocols and procedures. Has discretionary authority to deviate or waive from established company policies and procedures without prior approval depending on the business need.
Spearhead the activities of the QA Technicians to ensure safe and efficient lab operations and product quality.
Assist and monitor the CIP and COP programs and procedures for the Plant.
Perform all laboratory analysis according to FDA/USDA protocols.
Improve technical efficiencies of the QA Labs while reducing operating costs through analysis. Has the authority to formulate, interpret or implement lab operating practices.
Lead improved utilization of quality metrics for all Quality inputs and outputs. Has the responsibility to carry out major assignments while conducting QA business.
Audit Quality systems (SOP's); run and utilize statistical techniques to improve SOP's and training.
Perform analysis according to the control plans and record information on appropriate forms.
Perform all bench-work analysis according to Standard Operating Procedures (SOP's) and Standard Methods.
React according to the decision grid when results from analysis show bad (poor or abnormal) developing trends. Record results from analysis on designated forms and analyze information recorded. Be proactive when incidents arise: analyze facts and results during investigations (context, why, who, what, etc.) Report results to QA Manager.
Coordinate the proper operation, testing and maintenance of the facility water systems and assure compliance with the Water Quality Policy.
Lead Non-Conforming Product investigations and track corrective actions.
Ensure all equipment is calibrated according to the defined schedule.
Communicate detailed summary of non-conformance incidents and actions taken to departments affected and concerned, i.e. production, distribution, scheduling, etc., in accordance with Federal Food Drug & Cosmetic Act (21 CFR 108-Emergency Permit Control; 21 CFR 110-Current Good Manufacturing Practice in Manufacturing, Packing or Holding Human Food; 21CFR 113-Thermally Processed Low-Acid Foods in Hermetically Sealed Containers, 21 CFR 114-Acidified Foods; 9 CFR 318(381)-USDA Canning Regulations and Title III, Subtitle A of the Public Health Security and Bioterrorism Preparedness Response Act of 2002).
Participate in updating, developing and implementing SOP's.
Support the plant quality systems initiatives focusing on continuous improvement.
Ensure compliance to SSOPs, GMPs, and SOP's.
Participate in appropriate operator training and quality performance assessment.
As part of the QA Team, work to provide expertise for trouble-shooting quality-related problems.
Manage internal quality audits and corrective action systems as they relate to SOP's and quality systems documentation, equipment, operational processes and procedures.
Participate in quality improvement projects.
Be an active participant by communicating timely and pertinent data when appropriate, and active involvement in analyzing, recommending, and implementing solutions to problems within the Plant.
Comply with all Quality standards including Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), Quality Assurance Parameters (QAPs), Good Manufacturing Process (GMPs) Procedures, and HACCP. Be knowledgeable in all required Quality Assurance checks and in HACCP related items. Show exemplary behaviors by being a role model for Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP's).
Comply with all company safety procedures and guidelines and comply with all company guidelines and policies. Support and participate in safety activities to achieve departmental and plant wide goals and objectives.
Ensure that quality tasks/operations maintain or improve product quality. Stop and correct task/operation if product quality is affected negatively. Report results to QA Manager.
May work 12-hour shifts following the production schedule including weekends when required.
Effectively read, write, speak and comprehend English.
Maintain a clean, organized work area respecting GMPs.

QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS: To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and / or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE: Bachelor's degree (B.S.) in food science / technology, biology or related field from a four-year College or technical school; or three to five years related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience. Must be able to understand and follow directions. Must be able to handle multiple tasks and projects simultaneously. Must be able to demonstrate good attendance. Manual and finger dexterity. Must be able to work extended hours and/or overtime as required. Must be able to participate in job development training, such as equipment cross-training and team development training. Must have working knowledge of computers and MS Office applications.

LANGUAGE SKILLS: Ability to effectively read, write, speak and comprehend English. Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals. Ability to write routine reports and correspondence. Ability to speak effectively before groups.

MATHEMATICAL SKILLS: Ability to work with basic mathematical concepts such as percentages, graphics, ratios, and proportions. Also have basic understanding of statistics, such as averages, standard deviations, variances and frequencies.

REASONING ABILITY: Ability to define problems, collect data, establishes facts, draw valid conclusions, and effectively implement and train. Some analytical ability is required in order to gather and summarize data for reports, find solutions to various administrative problems, and prioritize work.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS: The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to use hands to finger, handle or feel objects, tools, or controls and taste or smell. The employee is occasionally required to walk and reach with hands and arms. The employee frequently is required to stand; sit; and stoop, kneel, push, crouch, or crawl. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, color vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.

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.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee regularly works near moving mechanical parts. The employee frequently works in high, precarious places and is frequently exposed to toxic or caustic chemicals, extreme cold, and risk of electrical shock. The employee occasionally works in outside weather conditions. The operator will be exposed to wet and humid conditions and have to work with cleaning chemicals, toxic chemicals, and some dust in the atmosphere. The noise level in the work environment has been measured at 85 decibels and hearing protection must be worn. Working in close proximity with moving forklift trucks is required.
Faribault Foods' Benefits and Compensation:
-Paid Time Off, Holiday Pay, and paid End of Year Shut Down
-Health Insurance (Medical, Dental, & Vision) - after 60 days
-Employee Assistance Program
-401(k) Retirement Plan & Employer Match
-Tuition Reimbursement
-Perfect Attendance Incentives
-Life Insurance - Company paid
-Short-Term & Long-Term Disability - Company paid
-Job Progression Program - Earn as You Learn
-Employee of the Month Recognition Program
-Wellness Program - Up to $150 in rewards
-On-campus gym; free weights, elliptical, treadmill, etc.
-Employee referral bonus $200, for referral
-Provided uniform shirts twice a year - Company paid
-Reimburse up to $150 for steel toe boots every 12 months