QA Tech

Job Purpose

The Level I QA Technician position is intended to be a “starting” point, from which the technician is expected to advance to capability on both sides of the process before the two year “target.” The Level I Technician should be capable of the required sampling and testing on either the processing or packaging side of the process with some assistance from the other QA technicians or leads.

The Level I Technician should have a good working knowledge of Food Safety and Quality policies.

• Operationally use analytical instruments including NIR, Aw meter, Compu Trac moisture analyzer, calipers, LECO, laboratory weigh scales, vacuum chamber for seal checks, thermometers and other equipment as added.
• Perform in-process sampling and testing, completing all routine tests required for either the Processing side or Packaging side.
• Apply Quality Hold procedures: place materials and product on Hold in X3 and physical hold, and complete Log and Hold report.
• Enter data collected from routine tests into IQS software and maintain proficiency in all Alphia business systems that relate to this position.
• Follow Food Safety and Sanitation practices: observe GMP requirements, monitor HACCP compliance in-process, perform verification checks of metal detectors and magnets in the area of responsibility as specified in Quality Checkpoints.
• Assist with product changeover cleaning and sanitation; perform inspections required before product startup.
• Pull finished product samples for product release testing and pull samples for testing as required in product specifications.
• Inform operators and shift supervisor of testing results and communicate quality concerns and status to the shift.
• Follow established procedures to ensure Alphia produces safe, quality food that meets all governmental regulations.

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Willingness to work in a team environment and contribute to group goals.
• Excellent communication skills.
• Ability to receive and provide instructions positively.
• Basic math skills.
• Ability to multi‑task.

Regularly required to talk or hear, walk, and move from place to place; occasionally required to sit, use feet to operate machine, stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl or reach above shoulders; frequently required to stand and use hands to finger, handle, or touch. Must be able to climb stairs and ladders. Must exert 20 to 50 pounds of force occasionally, and / or up to 10 to 25 pounds of force frequently.

Specific vision requirements include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.

May be frequently exposed to allergens and/or airborne particles in the production area. Exposure to temperatures ranging from 50 to 115 degrees, depending on the season and workstation, and may be working near moving mechanical parts. Noise level may be loud while production equipment is running. Personal protective equipment such as boots, gloves, safety glasses and/or face shields is required. Ear plugs and bump caps are always required in the production area.

Alphia is an equal opportunity employer.