QA/QC Technician at Plenty in Chester, Virginia

Job Description:

About Plenty


Plenty is on a mission to make fresh and clean fruits and vegetables more accessible to everyone. Our cutting-edge indoor, vertical farms produce extraordinary yields using a fraction of the land and water outdoor farms need. Nutrient-rich, mouth-watering and locally grown, our crops help people, communities and our planet to be healthier and more resilient.

The people and teams who make up Plenty are at the core of how we do this. We are a collaborative and innovative bunch. We are passionate about our contributions to Plenty, the communities around us and our planet, but never take ourselves too seriously. We're down to Earth, we grow together, and we always find a way. Most importantly, we are growing for a better tomorrow, today.



About the role


Plenty is looking for a QA/QC Technician to join our Farm Operations team. In this role, you will be responsible for testing, inspection of products and processes at various points in the manufacturing process to ensure adherence to company quality & food safety standards. You are also responsible for establishing and executing the disposition of products that do not meet company quality standards.



What you'll do

• Conduct Quality Audits to ensure product being produced meets established quality standards
• Conduct analytical testing of product and raw materials used for or during manufacture to assure they meet company standards
• Recommend modifications of existing quality or production standards to achieve optimum quality
• Assess the quality of incoming materials to make sure they meet specifications
• Audit the paperwork of operators to ensure they are conducting checks at the required frequency
• Attend the shift transition meeting on a daily basis representing the QA department
• Recommend improvements to current testing protocols
• Hold non-conforming raw materials, packaging materials, WIP and finished product be able to investigate and troubleshoot the non-conformity and provide the appropriate disposition for product not meeting company quality standards
• Conduct product analysis with operations to evaluate current product quality and prevent large-scale issues
• Assist in training new technicians as necessary
• Create documents as needed and ensure that documents being utilized accurately reflect current processes and methodology
• Maintain the work area 5S system
• Utilize Good Laboratory Practice when conducting testing
• Identify and generate graphs for QA Key Results
• Evaluate test data and report deviations from existing standards
• Evaluate incoming material Certificate of Analysis (COA) against the current company specifications. Validate COA through either internal or outside lab testing of product according to specified audit frequency
• Other duties as assigned. Schedules will be reviewed periodically and are subject to change based on business needs

• Either a Bachelor's degree in a relevant field or equivalent years of experience
• 3+ years of experience working in a food manufacturing or produce environment, experience with berries a plus
• Previous QA experience in food manufacturing or produce a plus
• Excellent computer skills, Microsoft Windows and Office
• Ability to be precise and accurate
• Ability to make good judgment and decisions
• Ability to read and follow documents (Standard Operating Procedures and Test Methods)
• Knowledge of GMP, 5S, GLP, HACCP and Quality & Food Safety Systems
• Strong analytical skills
• Ability to push, pull and lift up to 40 pounds
• Ability to stand for extended periods
• Ability to work in produce freezer environments - as low as 32 degrees
• Ability to work at heights up to 40 feet

• Comply with all Plant, State and Federal OSHA, EPA, FDA, HACCP, and SQF regulations
• All applicants must be 18 years or older to apply
• Comply with GMP/GAPS in the Facility
• Conduct monitoring activities to assure finished product complies with food safety and quality specifications
• Assist in the maintenance of Food Safety and Quality system

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  Compensation: we'll pay you a competitive wage on a biweekly basis, give you a stake in the company via equity and contribute toward your 401K
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  Health & well-being: we'll invest in your physical and mental well-being with comprehensive medical, dental, & vision benefits, along with support for your mental health through Spring Health and financial wellness through LearnLux. Plus pet insurance for your furry family members!
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  Food: in-office snacks and access to our leafy greens & new produce in development -- are you up for a side gig as a taste tester?
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  Grow together: learning & development opportunities including unlimited access to LinkedIn Learning, team lunch & learns, training certifications, and more
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  Equipment: we'll provide you with the equipment you need to be successful, including $75/month toward your home internet and phone bills and $250 every 2 years to upgrade your phone
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  Paid time off: we know you'll do your best if you're taking time to recharge, so we offer 2 weeks of paid time off + 6 days of paid sick leave per year + 2 days for floating holidays + holiday pay on holidays we observe
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  Parental leave: 12 weeks off for all eligible new parents - fully paid so you can focus your energy on your newest addition