Quality Assurance; QA Technician - 3rd Shift

Job Summary

Ensures all records pertaining to HACCP, pre-requisite programs, and SSOPs are reviewed for accuracy and any deficiencies are identified. Handles supply ordering for quality-related equipment, supplies, and services. Reports internal and external quality and production-related metrics.

• Perform analytical testing including pH, sodium, color, drain weight, water activity, brix & moisture.
• Verify food safety and quality checks established in the KC-Everett Plant's HACCP/FSMA and preventive control programs.
• Ensure food safety and regulatory compliance of sanitation practices. Provide on‑floor QA support for investigation and troubleshooting of food safety, quality, or process control issues.
• Assist QA management in collecting data for product and system improvement (statistical process controls).
• Ensure work areas on the floor follow plant GMP requirements and meet all local, state, and federal regulations.
• Perform verification system checks to ensure sanitation systems are on track, including daily pre‑operational sanitation checks (inspections, APC, ATP, and environmental monitoring).
• Assist QA and R&D during special batch runs.
• Assist QA and operations with conformance checks of ingredients, packaging, and finished product to ensure they meet established specifications.
• Work in a safe manner and follow all Kettle Cuisine standards and occupational safety regulations.
• Assist QA and the site in achieving KC‑Everett Plant and QA departmental goals and objectives.

• 2‑year technical degree or 4‑year college program in Food Science, Quality, or related field, or equivalent education and experience.
• Strong knowledge of HACCP and USDA/FDA regulations.
• HACCP certification preferred. Inventory and database management experience preferred.
• Ability to identify and create processes and write procedures.
• Ability to respond to common inquiries or complaints from customers, regulatory agencies, or the business community.
• Thrives in a challenging, entrepreneurial atmosphere and embraces change.
• Computer skills – extensive knowledge of MS Office Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Access, and an email system.

• Ability to multitask with an extremely high level of attention to detail.
• Excellent interpersonal skills, team player, enthusiasm, and effective teamwork.
• Strong oral and written communication skills.
• Positive attitude and motivation to contribute to team success.
• Ability to develop strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders.
• Creative problem‑solving skills.
• Obsessive attention to detail, well organized, and capable of juggling many projects.
• Comfortable working in a fast‑paced, ambiguous environment.
• Passionate about food.
• Willingness to address difficult situations with patience and respect.

• Model and support Kettle’s Core Values and safety culture.
• Create a culture of accountability and performance.
• Drive focus on quality and continuous improvement.
• Plan work, track results, and resolve variances.

• Works with little supervision; decisions reviewed and exercised with discretion.
• Recommends actions and alternatives to supervisors and others.
• Little to no customer contact.
• Indicates moderate revenue contribution and moderate impact on other departments and external relationships.
• Error detection typically occurs after the fact, potentially causing moderate interruption and delays.

$24.00–$26.00 per hour (DOE) plus shift differentials: $1 on 2nd shift, $2 on 3rd shift.

• Medical, Vision, and Dental Insurance
• Accrued Paid Time Off (PTO) and Sick Leave
• Paid Maternity and Paternity Leave
• Life Insurance and Disability Insurance

The work environment characteristics described are representative of those a QA Technician encounters while performing the essential functions of this job.

• Occasional physical exertion, including lifting objects up to 25 pounds.

• Moderate concentration required for complex tasks.
• Occasional visual effort for extended periods.