QA, Food Technologist

Job Title

QA and Sensory Technologist

Grand Rapids, MI (US-MI) – USD $66,900 - $84,000 per year.

The QA and Sensory Technologist supports the retailer's overall program objectives through the management and implementation of quality assurance practices such as product monitoring and evaluation, customer feedback programs, and supplier standards. Responsibilities include timely submission of regulatory applications, managing relationships with cross‑functional teams, customers, and manufacturers, and reviewing and providing process adjustments to maximize efficiencies.

• Support the development, implementation, and administration of quality assurance operational procedures, policies, programs, and systems.
• Participate in the overall product development process.
• Maintain the on-site sensory test kitchen.
• Drive the private-label quality assurance testing program for specific products or clients.
• Perform day‑to‑day management of the retailer’s customer feedback programs for private brands.
• Resolve issues or concerns regarding current product quality and recommend corrective solutions with vendors.
• Audit critical categories for quality integrity and food safety.
• Design, execute, and analyze results from consumer tests and sensory evaluations of private‑label and competitive brand products.
• Track and monitor federal and state regulations for products and packaging.

Direct reports:
None.
Indirect reports:
None.

Travel and driving are not essential duties or functions of this role.

• Bachelor’s Degree or equivalent in Food Science or related field.
• 2+ years of experience in science with laboratory experience.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to exercise sound judgment.
• Well organized, detail-oriented, and able to handle a fast‑paced work environment.
• Knowledge of generally accepted practices, procedures, and standard policy & procedure development techniques.
• Knowledgeable in data analysis, compiling information, and preparing reports.
• Basic computer skills:
  Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, Excel, Access, Outlook, and web browsers.

• Primarily office/sedentary; must sit for extended periods (66%+ of each day).
• Must be able to hear telephone, enter data on a computer.
• May require lifting up to 30 lbs.

The Company is committed to providing equal opportunity in all employment practices without regard to age, race, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, religion, physical or mental disability, or any other category protected by law. As part of this commitment, the Company shall provide reasonable accommodations of known disabilities to enable applicants or employees to apply for employment, perform the essential functions of the job, or enjoy the benefits and privileges of employment as required by law.