QA Lab Specialist I

Westrock Coffee Company•Concord, NC

5d•Onsite

About The Position

We are currently seeking a QA Specialist I to join our organization. The Specialist's responsibilities will include maintaining data on databases, managing microbiology results, updating laboratory procedures, and ensuring knowledge of SQF and HACCP processes. This role involves identifying non-conforming product, preparing samples for testing, providing Certificates of Analysis (COAs) to customers, and shipping samples to third-party labs. The position also includes participating in testing for R&D projects, conducting special projects, assisting with compliance audits, training new employees, reviewing incoming raw material COAs, performing various tests on finished products and other samples, updating reports, maintaining Safety Data Sheets (SDS), performing ATP swab analysis, and fulfilling duties related to Food Safety, Preventive Controls, and Food Defense. Other duties may be assigned.

Requirements

Bachelor of Science degree in scientific discipline
5+ years QA experience in a manufacturing/production setting strongly preferred or equivalent combination of education and experience
Acidified Foods Certified or have ability to achieve certification required
HACCP certified
PCQI certification or ability to become certified
Microbiology lab experience strongly preferred
Experience with standard laboratory equipment including pH meter, refractometer, hydrometer, automated titrator, density cup, etc.
Computer skills to include use of Outlook, Word and Excel
Sound communication and writing skills
Sound math skills
Lifting capacity of 50 lbs.
Proven track record of responsibility and reliability
Ability to work varied shifts as needed and weekends
Ability to work with minimal direct supervision

Responsibilities

Maintain data on database for liquid extracts
Maintain microbiology results, send monthly micro verifications to third party lab
Maintain and update laboratory procedures, forms, etc., for approval by QA Supervisor
Knowledgeable in the SQF process and enforcement of its procedures
Knowledgeable in the HACCP process and corrective actions
Identifies non-conforming product and gathers pertinent information needed to help determine disposition
Maintain retain samples and prepare samples for test evaluation during production/manufacturing
Provide Complete COAs to customers in a timely manner
Ship samples to third party labs for routine and specialized testing
Participate in testing (physical, microbiological, and organoleptic) for R&D projects
Conduct QA Lab special projects as assigned by QA Manager
Assist with Compliance audits -- both internal and external e.g. SQF, NCDA, FDA, customer audits
Train new employees on proper use of lab equipment and annual refresher training
Review and file COAs for incoming raw materials (Coffee)
Perform physical and microbiological testing of finished products and other samples as required
Update QA Weekly report
Maintain SDS Sheets for lab chemicals
Perform ATP swabs analysis to verify sanitation procedures
Perform duties as assigned in the areas of Food Safety, Preventive Controls and Food Defense
Other duties as assigned