Job Detail

Quality Assurance Baker

The Quality Assurance Baker is responsible for evaluating the quality, consistency, functionality, and food safety of raw materials, in-process products, and finished goods through bake testing and quality verification activities. This role supports product quality initiatives by conducting bakery-based testing, documenting results, monitoring compliance with food safety standards, and collaborating with Production, R&D, and Quality teams to ensure products meet Pennant Ingredients and customer specifications.

This role includes performing bake tests, sensory evaluations, analytical testing, and maintaining accurate quality records.

Primary Responsibilities:

• Perform bake tests according to established formulas, recipes, and customer specifications.
• Evaluate finished baked products for appearance, texture, flavor, volume, color, and overall performance.
• Conduct analytical testing including pH, moisture, and other applicable quality measurements.
• Record and maintain accurate test results and quality documentation in required databases and systems.
• Verify compliance with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs), Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), BRC requirements, and food safety programs.
• Conduct product inspections and quality checks throughout the manufacturing process.
• Monitor incoming raw materials, packaging, and labels for compliance with specifications.
• Maintain retain samples and retention logs in accordance with quality procedures.
• Apply hold tags and assist with product hold management activities as required.
• Perform daily calibration and verification of laboratory and testing equipment.
• Maintain cleanliness and organization of the bake lab, quality workstations, and testing equipment.
• Participate in investigations, root cause analysis, corrective actions, and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Communicate quality concerns promptly to QA leadership and production personnel.
• Support internal audits, customer audits, and regulatory inspections.
• Assist with special quality projects, product evaluations, and validation activities as assigned.

Education Requirements:

• Minimum:
  High School or GED
• Preferred: AAS Degree - Associates or Bachelors in Food Science, Baking Science, Quality Assurance, Microbiology, or related field

Minimum Experience:

• Minimum: 2 years of bakery, food manufacturing, quality assurance, or related experience

Work Environment:

• Frequent standing and walking throughout the shift.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 25 pounds frequently and up to 50 pounds occasionally.
• Ability to bend, reach, push, pull, stoop, kneel, and climb as needed.
• Ability to work around manufacturing equipment, dust, noise, temperature fluctuations, and food allergens including wheat, dairy, egg, and soy.

General Safety Responsibility Statements (Essential):

• Actively participate in all required safety training and adhere to company health and safety policies.
• Maintain a safe work environment by identifying and reporting potential hazards or unsafe conditions immediately to a supervisor.
• Properly use and maintain required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), tools, and equipment.
• Safety is everyone's responsibility; all employees are expected to act in a safe manner at all times to prevent incidents.
• Comply with all local, state, and federal regulations, as well as company-specific safety procedures (e.g., JHA, Lockout/Tagout).
• Operate heavy machinery and equipment safely, ensuring all safety guards are in place and functional.
• Maintain a safe, ergonomic workspace, including attending, and participating in safety drills and emergency evacuation training.

QA:

• Possesses a thorough knowledge of industry standards and best practices.
• Produces high-quality, accurate work with strong attention to detail.
• Exhibits high levels of integrity, dependability, and trustworthiness.
• Maintains a high degree of confidentiality and professionalism.

Compensation:
Hourly compensation is based on skills and experience, ranging from $20.00-$24.00