Job Summary
The QA Technician is responsible for monitoring production processes to ensure compliance with food safety regulations, company quality standards, and requirements set by the United States Department of Agriculture and FDA. This role helps maintain product safety, verifies sanitation procedures, and ensures accurate documentation of quality control activities.
Key Responsibilities
Food Safety & Compliance
- Monitor production to ensure compliance with HACCP plans and food safety programs
- Verify critical control points (CCPs) such as cooking temperatures, chilling, and metal detection
- Ensure adherence to Sanitation Standard Operating Procedures (SSOPs)
- Assist with regulatory compliance for USDA requirements
- Propose HACCP updates when necessary
Quality Monitoring
- Inspect products for appearance, weight, packaging integrity, and labeling accuracy
- Conduct routine quality checks during production
- Place product on hold when quality or safety concerns arise
Documentation & Recordkeeping
- Maintain accurate records for HACCP logs, temperature logs, and production reports
- Review paperwork to ensure regulatory compliance
- Document deviations and corrective actions when standards are not met
Sanitation Verification
- Perform pre-operational inspections of equipment and processing areas
- Verify that sanitation procedures have been properly completed before production begins
- Conduct environmental or equipment swabbing when required
Regulatory Interaction
- Assist during inspections conducted by USDA officials & FDA officials
- Provide documentation and support during regulatory or internal audits
- Help address non-compliance issues and corrective actions
Training & Communication
- Promote food safety awareness among employees
- Communicate quality concerns to production supervisors and management
- Assist with training staff on proper food handling and sanitation procedures
Qualifications
Education
- High school diploma or GED required
- Associate’s or bachelor’s degree in Food Science, Biology, Microbiology, or related field preferred
Experience
- 1–2 years of experience in food manufacturing, quality assurance, or food safety preferred
- Experience in USDA or FDA regulated environments is a plus
Skills
- Knowledge of HACCP and food safety principles
- Strong attention to detail
- Ability to maintain accurate documentation
- Good communication and problem-solving skills
- Fully Bi-lingual English and Spanish