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.  

DESCRIPTION OF ESSENTIAL DUTIES: 

• Analytical Instruments: 

•  Operate the NIR, Aw meter, CompuTrac moisture analyzer, calipers, LECO, laboratory weigh scales, vacuum chamber for seal checks (PC), thermometers and other equipment as added. 

• In-Process Sampling and Testing: 

• Completes all routine tests required for either Processing side or Packaging side. 

• Quality Hold  

• Know and be able to place materials and product on Hold in X3 and physical Hold, and complete Log and Hold report. 

• Business Systems: 

• Enter data collected from routine tests into IQS software. 

• Knowledge and proficiency in all Alphia Business Systems as relates to Position. 

• Food Safety and Sanitation: 

• Know and follow basic GMP requirements. 

• Know and monitor HACCP compliance in-Process. 

• Perform verification checks of metal detectors and magnets in area of responsibility as specified in Quality Checkpoints.  

• Assist with product changeover cleaning and sanitation; perform inspections required before product startup. 

• Microbial Testing: 

• Pull finished product samples for product release testing. 

• Regulatory Requirements: 

• Pull samples for testing as required in product specifications. 

• Communication: 

• Informs operators and shift supervisor of testing results. 

• Communicates Quality concerns and Quality status to the following shift. 

Responsible for following established procedures to ensure that Alphia produces safe, quality food, meeting all governmental regulations.  

Other duties as directed or assigned. 

QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS: (To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required). 

• Education level: high school diploma or GED required. 

• Willing 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.