Quality Assurance Specialist

Ever Fresh Fruit Co • Boring, OR

26d

About The Position

The Quality Assurance Specialist supports compliance with regulations and the Safe Quality Food (SQF) program under the direction of the Quality Assurance Manager. The specialist also serves as a designated backup to the QA Supervisor and QA Technicians. The role is in the Quality Assurance department, is classified as regular and non-exempt, and has no supervisory responsibilities.

Ever Fresh Fruit Company works with customers to develop flavor elements for ice cream bases and yogurt preparations, producing ingredients for international corporations and local brands. Research and development is conducted in-house, and the company supports regional trade organizations, sources locally when appropriate, and provides food products to consumers.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Food Science, Engineering, Chemistry, Microbiology, or a related field.
• At least 2 years of applicable food-industry experience; hands-on experience is preferred.
• Strong analytical and investigative skills and an understanding of statistics.
• Detail-oriented team player with strong verbal, written, organizational, time-management, and interpersonal skills.
• Skilled in computer systems and Microsoft Office, with working knowledge of computer databases.
• Ability to handle multiple projects simultaneously and prioritize tasks.
• Shift flexibility and availability for some travel as required.
• Ability to work in an environment containing allergens such as nuts, milk, and wheat.
• Ability to work in temperatures above 100 degrees for periods exceeding one hour; more extreme temperatures may occur during summer.
• Ability to work in a loud environment and around workplace hazards, including equipment that conducts extreme heat, moving parts, and electrical current.

Nice To Haves

• Experience with root cause analysis and corrective and preventive actions (CAPAs).
• HACCP certification and SQF experience.
• Lean/Six Sigma training.
• Hands-on food-industry experience.

Responsibilities

• Analyze and trend nonconformances.
• Conduct root cause analysis in support of corrective and preventive actions.
• Manage customer and vendor complaints.
• Develop and revise standard operating procedures and quality documentation.
• Maintain customer and supplier document portals, including TraceGains, Kosher, and Organic portals.
• Conduct routine audits and inspections, including supplier audits.
• Test products using Brix, pH, and other parameters.
• Verify HACCP and food safety records.
• Validate critical processes, including food safety, sanitation, and new equipment.
• Serve as a designated backup to the QA Supervisor and QA Technicians.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Benefits

• Employee and professional development.
• Opportunities for growth.
• Employer-paid medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• Employer-paid short-term disability and life insurance.
• Vacation and sick pay.
• Nine paid holidays.
• Tuition reimbursement.
• Generous 401(k) match.
• Monday through Friday schedule.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level