Job Title: Quality Technician

Department: Quality-Plant

Reports to: SQF Manager

Status: Non-exempt, full time

Job Summary: We are seeking a detail-oriented and experienced Quality Technician to join our team in the pet food manufacturing industry. The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience with the Safe Quality Food (SQF) certification and a strong understanding of food safety, quality control processes, and regulatory requirements. The Quality Technician will play a key role in ensuring product quality, compliance with safety standards, and maintaining the SQF certification for our food production facility.

Key Responsibilities:

Quality Control:

1. Conduct routine inspections of in-process production and finished products to ensure they meet quality specifications and safety standards.
2. Perform sensory evaluations (appearance, texture, etc.) and laboratory testing as required.
3. Monitor and verify proper implementation of quality procedures and standards throughout the production process. Compliance with SQF:
4. Assist in maintaining and ensuring compliance with SQF certification requirements.
5. Conduct internal audits to ensure adherence to SQF, GMP (Good Manufacturing Practices), and HACCP (Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point) systems.
6. Support preparation for external SQF and regulatory audits.
7. Maintain accurate documentation related to food safety, quality control, and SQF compliance.

Product Sampling & Testing:

1. Collect and prepare samples for testing in accordance with quality standards.
2. Perform chemical, microbiological, and physical tests on raw materials, ingredients, and finished products.
3. Record and analyze test results, identifying any deviations from quality standards and recommending corrective actions.

Root Cause Analysis & Corrective Action:

1. Investigate non-conformances or quality issues, conduct root cause analysis and implement corrective and preventive actions.
2. Document findings and actions taken to resolve issues and track the effectiveness of corrective actions.

Documentation & Reporting:

1. Maintain detailed and accurate records of inspections, tests, audits, and quality activities.
2. Prepare reports on quality trends, non-conformances, and corrective actions.
3. Assist in generating reports for management review and continuous improvement initiatives.

Training & Support:

1. Provide training to production staff on quality standards, food safety practices, and SQF-related requirements.
2. Assist with educating new team members on relevant quality procedures and protocols.

Continuous Improvement:

1. Actively participate in continuous improvement initiatives to optimize processes, reduce waste, and enhance product quality.
2. Stay updated on industry best practices, emerging trends, and changes to SQF or food safety regulations.

Qualifications:

MUST BE BILINGUAL (ENG-SPA)

• Experience:
• 2+ years of experience as a Quality Technician in the food industry.
• Experience working with SQF certification and food safety systems (HACCP, GMP).
• Familiarity with industry regulations, such as FDA, USDA, or similar standards.
• Skills:
• Strong knowledge of quality control techniques, food safety practices, and lab testing methods.
• Ability to read and interpret technical specifications, blueprints, and quality standards.
• Proficient in using laboratory equipment and tools for testing (e.g., pH meters, thermometers, microscopes).
• Excellent attention to detail and analytical skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Education:
• A high school diploma or equivalent is required. A degree or certification in Food Science, Microbiology, or a related field is preferred.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to stand for long periods, lift up to 25 pounds, and work in a manufacturing environment.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and handle multiple tasks simultaneously.