QA Tech

Alphia • Pittsburg, TX

2d • Onsite

About The Position

The Level I QA Technician position is an entry point intended to develop the technician’s capability on both the processing and packaging sides of the production process before the two-year target. The technician performs required sampling and testing on either side, with some assistance from other QA technicians or leads, and maintains a working knowledge of food safety and quality policies. The role supports safe, quality food production in compliance with governmental regulations and established procedures.

The technician uses analytical instruments, completes routine in-process tests, manages quality holds, records test data in IQS, and supports food safety, sanitation, microbial testing, and regulatory sampling. The technician communicates test results and quality concerns to operators, shift supervisors, and the following shift. Other duties may be assigned.

The work takes place in a production environment where employees may encounter allergens and airborne particles, temperatures ranging from 50 to 115 degrees depending on season and workstation, moving mechanical parts, outdoor weather, and loud noise. Personal protective equipment is used during various production processes; ear plugs and bump caps are required in the production area.

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED.
• 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 multitask.
• Ability to perform the essential duties satisfactorily.
• Ability to walk and move from place to place; frequently stand and use hands to finger, handle, or touch; and climb stairs and ladders.
• Ability to exert 20 to 50 pounds of force occasionally, up to 10 to 25 pounds frequently, and greater than negligible up to 10 pounds constantly.
• Vision abilities including close, distance, color, and peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.

Responsibilities

• Operate analytical instruments and equipment, including NIR, Aw meter, CompuTrac moisture analyzer, calipers, LECO, laboratory weigh scales, vacuum chamber for seal checks (PC), and thermometers.
• Complete routine in-process tests for either the processing or packaging side.
• Place materials and product on hold in X3 and in physical hold; complete the log and hold report.
• Enter data from routine tests into IQS software and use Alphia business systems as they relate to the position.
• Follow basic GMP requirements and monitor in-process HACCP compliance.
• 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 and perform inspections before product startup.
• Pull finished-product samples for product release testing.
• Pull samples for testing as specified in product requirements.
• Inform operators and the shift supervisor of testing results.
• Communicate quality concerns and quality status to the following shift.
• Follow established procedures to help ensure Alphia produces safe, quality food that meets governmental regulations.
• Perform other duties as directed or assigned.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED