1st Shift QA TECHNICIAN I

Jbs Usa • Columbia, MO

3d • Onsite

About The Position

QA Technicians help ensure products are safe for human consumption by testing and inspecting products at various stages of production. They evaluate test results and data to maintain food safety, quality, and reliability standards. This role is with Principe Foods in Columbia, Missouri, and reports to the Quality Assurance (QA) Supervisor. The stated starting pay rate is $21.63 per hour.

The technician interprets product specifications and standard operating procedures (SOPs), conducts tests on raw materials and finished products, investigates quality issues, and communicates findings and recommendations. The role also supports employee training, GMP compliance, HACCP activities, equipment calibration and maintenance, and upkeep of the QA lab and work area. The position requires following plant safety procedures and may involve additional hours or overtime without advance notice.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• At least one year of experience in the food manufacturing industry.
• Ability to read, interpret, and analyze business periodicals, professional journals, technical procedures, and government regulations.
• Ability to write reports, business correspondence, and procedure manuals.
• Ability to present information effectively and respond to questions from managers, clients, customers, and the public.
• Ability to calculate figures and amounts, including proportions, percentages, area, circumference, and volume, and apply basic algebra.
• Ability to follow written, oral, or diagrammed instructions and solve problems involving several concrete variables in standardized situations.
• Ability to comprehend and communicate in basic English and interact with all levels of the organization.
• Intermediate computer skills, including data entry and use of Microsoft Outlook, Excel, and Word.
• Ability to handle multiple tasks concurrently and handle sensitive and confidential information.
• Ability to see, hear, and speak clearly to communicate effectively.
• Occasional ability to lift or move up to 50 pounds unassisted.
• Must meet company standards for background and reference checks and controlled substance testing.
• Good attendance and safety records.

Nice To Haves

• Food manufacturing experience is described as preferred.

Responsibilities

• Interpret raw and finished product specifications and company SOPs to ensure consistent and accurate testing techniques and frequencies.
• Set up and perform destructive and non-destructive testing on raw materials and finished products according to product specifications or SOPs.
• Select products at specified production stages and test qualities such as dimensions, performance, and mechanical, electrical, or chemical characteristics.
• Analyze information, conduct tests, investigate issues, receive feedback, communicate findings to QA leads, supervisors, plant management, and other appropriate personnel, and recommend permanent solutions.
• Assist with formal or informal training of personnel in testing, evaluating, measuring, charting, calculating, weighing, recording, filing, and other quality-related tasks.
• Recommend modifications to quality or manufacturing specifications and SOPs to achieve optimum quality within equipment and raw material capabilities.
• Prepare graphs or charts and enter data into a computer for analysis.
• Model, train, and enforce GMP compliance among plant personnel and visitors, and follow company and plant GMP policies.
• Understand the HACCP process; conduct, record, and file required tests and data, and assist with ongoing HACCP education, training, and audits.
• Perform net weight controls and metal detector performance checks according to SOPs.
• Calibrate measuring equipment routinely according to SOPs.
• Promote and support work teams, help motivate team members, and assist with resolving conflict.
• Use training to help maintain a positive and productive attitude and achieve work goals.
• Perform general or preventive maintenance and cleaning of testing and sampling equipment; notify the QC lead or supervisor of malfunctioning equipment.
• Clean and organize the QA lab and work area on an ongoing basis.
• Follow safety policies and procedures, including lockout/tagout, proper lifting, and required personal protective equipment.

Benefits

• Comprehensive benefits package for full-time employees, including medical coverage, a 401(k), and free tuition to select schools.
• Opportunity for career growth, with a preference for promoting internal employees into management roles as they are ready for new responsibilities.
• Charitable involvement across Mid-West communities through Hometown Strong.

What This Job Offers

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