Quality Control Technician (Tobacco) - Seasonal

Universal Corporation • Lancaster, PA

12d • $0 - $20 • Onsite

About The Position

The Tobacco Sorter is responsible for working with the Agronomy department to inspect, open, feel, and sort tobacco leaves based on quality, texture, condition, and intended use. This seasonal role requires strong attention to detail, manual dexterity, dependability, and the ability to work effectively as part of a small team in a production-style agricultural environment.

This is a seasonal position, typically scheduled from October through April.
Work is generally three to five days per week, depending on receiving schedules and business needs.
Typical hours are 6:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.; however, start and end times may vary based on daily operations.
Work weeks may vary depending on tobacco receiving volume and department needs.

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED equivalent
• Ability to follow verbal instructions and work safely in a team environment.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to identify visible leaf defects and quality differences.
• Ability to use hands for repetitive sorting, opening, handling, and inspecting tobacco leaves.
• Dependable attendance and punctuality during the seasonal work period.
• Ability to work flexible days and hours based on receiving schedules and operating needs.
• Ability to stand, sit, bend, reach, and use hands for extended periods during sorting activities.
• Ability to perform repetitive hand and arm movements throughout the workday.
• Ability to visually inspect tobacco leaves and identify differences in color, texture, condition, and quality.
• Ability to work in an environment that may include dust, dirt, and natural tobacco debris.

Nice To Haves

• Previous agricultural, sorting, grading, production, or quality inspection experience is helpful but not required.

Responsibilities

• Work with the Agronomy department to sort tobacco leaves into appropriate classifications, including wrapper, binder, straight strip, and filler.
• Use hands to open tobacco leaves, feel texture, and evaluate stretch, oil content, and overall leaf condition.
• Inspect leaves for imperfections such as holes, green spots, black spots, white spots, insect damage, dead areas, tears, and other quality concerns.
• Separate leaves according to established quality standards, specifications, and department direction.
• Handle tobacco carefully to avoid unnecessary damage during inspection and sorting.
• Work as part of a team of approximately six to seven employees to complete sorting activities efficiently and accurately.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area.
• Follow all safety procedures, department instructions, and company policies.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

What This Job Offers

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