QC Technician - Nights - Oakland

Quality Control Technician

Position Title: Quality Control Technician

Reports To: Quality Lead and Plant Manager

Department: Dean Resources Pellet Mill

Hours per shift: Employee works 12-hour shifts, with two 10‑minute breaks and a 30‑minute unpaid lunch.

Wage: Level 4/5 (Level 5 after WWPA grade certification)

Maximize product quality through consistent and accurate machine and product testing. Works closely with production supervisor, maintenance, other Quality Control personnel, and operators. Always complies with safety regulations and other company policies. Ensures our core values are consistently demonstrated in the way we conduct our operations and interact with each other.

• Identify product quality and manufacturing issues; investigate causes, recommend solutions, and implement improvements.
• Perform QC testing documentation and ensure accuracy throughout the mill.
• Understand operation of all machinery and how each machine can impact product quality.
• Fill out detailed data forms and enter data into computer.
• Conduct analysis and variance studies, both established and new, that benefit operations.
• Raise quality awareness through training sessions; explain the trade‑off between value and quantity and advocate quality standards with co‑workers.
• Maintain and encourage high levels of communication between operators, supervisors, and maintenance.
• Act as a relief in any position in the plant for breaks, etc.

• The worker may be required to rotate to different positions for cross‑training purposes or to facilitate production, following the duties outlined in the respective job descriptions.
• Assist co‑workers or maintenance personnel in basic maintenance and upkeep of machines.

Inside (80%): average temperature 70 °F; outside (20%): temperature ranges 10 °F to 105 °F. Noise from machine operation and nearby equipment (front‑end loader, forklift). Hazards: see Job Hazard Analysis. Atmosphere: wood fumes, dust limited, mist water, wood particle odor, no gasses; ventilation is adequate.

• Eye protection
• Hearing protection
• Blue Atlas gloves
• Approved footwear
• High‑visibility clothing

Constant use of hearing and vision; frequent pushing/pulling, reaching, and occasional lifting or carrying of more than 50 lbs.
Maximum weight lifted without assistance: 50 lbs.
Maximum weight carried without assistance: 10–50 lbs. Lifting over 50 lbs is performed with two or more people or lifting devices.

Continuous vision/hearing use; reading and speech to comprehend safety and lockout procedures; self‑directed task execution with prioritization, organization, and decision‑making.

• Perform only maintenance you are trained for; keep body parts clear of machinery.
• Follow the 14‑step lockout/tagout procedure before any maintenance or access to machinery.
• Use proper body mechanics; avoid overreach and seek help when needed.
• Use appropriate PPE (gloves, eye, hearing protection).
• Communicate with co‑workers, including forklift drivers.
• Read and write during safety training.

Standing: 12 hrs;
Walking: 12 hrs;
Change positions as needed. Lifting forces are typically minimal, with occasional higher loads handled with assistance.