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This position plays a key role in monitoring and improving our food safety and quality programs. Through process checks and short- and long-term projects, the QA tech will ensure each batch is produced, so that our customers receive consistent product from run to run. The successful QA Tech will have scientific knowledge and the ability to communicate effectively with all levels within our company. Performs analysis on in-process and finished products and R&D samples to ensure specifications are met. Makes accept/reject decision on incoming raw materials and pre-shipment samples based on pre-established criteria. Places defective product on hold in accordance with procedures. Resolves and reports defect issues. Interacts with other departments to communicate testing results.

Employee Type:

Full time

Location:

IL Elk Grove

Job Type:

Production Group

Job Posting Title:

Quality Technician

Job Description:

**Schedule:** 1st shift 5:00am to 4:30pm, Monday - Friday, with rotating for Saturday work based on production schedule.

**Work Location:** 1325 Chase Ave, Elk Grove Village, IL 60007

**Benefits:** Medical, Dental, Vision, 401(k) with match, STD/LTD/AD&D/Life, HSA, FSA, EAP, Hospital indemnity, Accident Insurance, Identity and Fraud Protection Plan, Legal, and Critical Illness.

**Salary, based on experience and other qualifications:** $18.95 to $21.85 per hour.

Essential Functions

+ Verify inbound ingredients and packaging materials conform to a control sample and comply with accepted internal specifications including Kosher status.

+ Perform process checks throughout production, packaging, sanitation and warehousing

+ functions of the company. These include, but are not limited to pre-operational inspections, sanitation verification, allergen controls, label review, code dating, net weights, CCP monitoring, package integrity, analytical checks (salt, pH, brix, moisture, fat, viscosity, acid) and organoleptic comparisons against a standard sample.

+ Maintain equipment calibration and support ESE product calibrations for analytical testing.

+ Conduct weight and product shelf-life studies.

+ Collect environmental swabs in each of the production areas on a rotational basis.

+ Schedule and submit samples to external laboratory for testing.

+ Communicate to Quality and Operations management when processes deviate from expectations and when unable to resolve an issue. Place materials on hold when necessary and document potential preventive actions and solutions. Assist in the investigation and disposition of non-conforming product.

+ Assist in training employees on food safety, company processes and Good Manufacturing

+ Practices.

+ Maintain accurate and organized records of QA activities.

+ Maintain organized inventory of retained products and supplies.

+ Monitor HACCP critical control points, SQF Critical Quality Points, and FSMA preventive controls.

+ Internal audits, GMP audits, Brittle Plastics Inspections and Allergen management.

+ Maintain SQF monitored procedures.

+ Support R&D and Operations during plant trials and processes by monitoring batch assembly, filling, and packaging as needed for troubleshooting.

+ Support timely finished product COA communications.

+ Report unsafe conditions and follow work order system protocols.

+ Ability to stand, walk, climb stairs and ladders for a high percentage of time during the work shift. Ability to lift up to 50 lbs. as needed.

+ Possess motivation, self-initiative, punctuality, and reliable attendance.

+ Carry out other duties as assigned to support and/or exceed company objectives.

+ Demonstrate proficiency in speaking, reading and writing in English.

Work Environment

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently exposed to wet and/or humid conditions. The noise level in the work environment is usually loud.

Experience:

Demonstrates good verbal, listening and written communication skills. Pays attention to detail, keeps organized, and troubleshoots equipment and process deviations. Work experience includes HACCP, allergen controls, analytical testing, process improvement, and environmental monitoring and GMPs.

Education:

Coursework completed in food science, microbiology or related degree would be preferred.

Apply basic computer application knowledge of Microsoft Outlook, Word and Excel.

Physical Demands

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to stand for the duration of the production shift; talk or hear; use hands or finger to handle or feel; and reach with hands and arms. The employee is frequently required to walk. The employee is infrequently required to sit; climb or balance; and stoop, kneel, or crouch. The employee must regularly lift and/or move up to 10 pounds, frequently lift and/or move up to 40 pounds, and occasionally lift and/or move more than 70 pounds.

We offer a great opportunity with a comprehensive salary and benefits package

EEO Statement:

Winland Foods seeks to recruit, develop, and retain the most talented people from a diverse candidate pool, and as a global company we believe our success is enhanced by fostering equity and inclusion in the workplace. Therefore, Winland Foods is committed to providing an environment of mutual respect where equal employment opportunities are available to all applicants and teammates without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, military or veteran status, and any other characteristic protected by applicable law.

Winland Foods is a leading private label food manufacturer of pasta, dry dinners, condiments, syrups, and more with nearly 3,000 employees operating out of 14 production facilities in US, Canada, and Italy.

As a ‘newly’ established company, we are creating the building blocks for an innovative and agile organization that is purpose driven - delivering high quality food to our customers and communities. We foster an environment that encourages all employees to be heard, and values their contributions and ideas.

By joining Winland Foods, you become a part of a new team that values passion, collaboration, and strives to prosper with our customers.

To all recruitment agencies: Winland Foods does not accept unsolicited agency resumes/CVs. Please do not forward resumes/CVs to Winland Foods employees, or any company location(s). Winland Foods is not responsible for any fees related to unsolicited resumes/CVs.