Quality Assurance (QA) Technician - 1st Shift

Dairy Farmers of America • Town of Scott, WI

9d • $22 • Onsite

About The Position

Perform laboratory testing and inspection activities to verify product quality
and compliance with food safety standards. Operate and maintain laboratory
equipment to ensure accurate measurements and reliable results. Monitor raw
materials, finished products, and production environments through sampling,
swabbing, and record review to identify and correct potential issues. Support
food safety programs by documenting findings, executing Hold & Release
procedures, and reporting non-conformances to management.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent preferred
• At least 1 year of laboratory, quality assurance, or related experience; experience in cheese processing or food manufacturing preferred
• Experience may include QA, machine operation, or similar work in a production environment
• Certification and/or License – may be required during course of employment
• Solid knowledge of quality control principles, GMP, hygiene, and HACCP standards
• Technical competence in using various testing equipment and performing laboratory procedures
• Basic proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, Outlook) and ability to use company computer systems
• Strong attention to detail with analytical and problem-solving skills
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills to work collaboratively across departments
• Ability to follow directions, meet deadlines, and maintain accurate documentation
• Ability to read and comprehend product specifications, test results, and laboratory manuals
• Must be able to read, write and speak English
• This position requires the ability to stand and walk for extended periods, frequent use of hands, and the ability to lift up to 50 pounds, with or without reasonable accommodation.
• Work is performed in a manufacturing and laboratory environment with exposure to temperature variations, noise, food products, food allergens, and cleaning chemicals.
• Use of personal protective equipment (PPE) is required.

Nice To Haves

• experience in cheese processing or food manufacturing preferred

Responsibilities

• Follow and enforce company food safety policies, GMPs, and personal hygiene requirements to maintain compliance
• Perform calibrations and verifications of test and measuring equipment to ensure accuracy of results
• Conduct finished product testing and label verification to confirm adherence to specifications
• Inspect, sample, and record inbound materials, verify Certificates of Analysis, and place items on hold when required
• Perform allergen testing and verification activities to support food safety standards
• Conduct post-cleaning and pre-operational sanitation inspections, including swabbing and documenting results, and follow the environmental monitoring program to perform swabbing and record corrective actions
• Execute Hold & Release procedures by placing product on hold, conducting pre-shipment reviews, and releasing items from soft hold
• Conduct routine inspections including glass/brittle plastic, band aid/ear plug, metal detector, sanitation, and GMP compliance to identify and mitigate risks
• Maintain accurate logs, data entry, and filing records for holds, foreign materials, non-conforming materials, lab results, and inspections to ensure traceability
• Review batch records and digital chart recorders to verify temperature and time compliance, assist with troubleshooting in-process testing issues, and report major issues and non-conformances to management
• The requirements herein are intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by employee, but is not a complete list of responsibilities, duties, and skills required. Other duties may be assigned as required

Benefits

• Competitive pay with overtime opportunities
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Company‑provided short‑term disability, long‑term disability, and life insurance
• 401(k) with company match
• Generous vacation time and sick time
• 7 paid holidays annually
• Career advancement and training opportunities within a stable, growing organization
• Paid uniforms, safety toe shoes, and prescription safety eyewear
• Benefits available following eligibility requirements

What This Job Offers

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