Retort Operator - QC Tech 1st shift

IPM Foods•Janesville, WI

About The Position

The Quality Control Technician conducts product testing on the production line and throughout the facility to ensure products meet established quality, safety, and specification standards. The role combines in-process line checks, equipment calibration, and facility-wide quality monitoring to support ongoing compliance. At the start of production runs, the technician verifies product and lot information, sets up inspection equipment, collects samples, and enters production information into the computer system. During production, the technician performs scheduled product and equipment checks, documents results, and verifies seal integrity. After each run, the technician validates and saves production data, checks equipment, and cleans the testing and work area. Work takes place in an active food manufacturing environment, with regular exposure to production equipment, food products, cleaning chemicals, and varying temperatures. Strict compliance with GMP, allergen control, food safety, and workplace safety requirements is mandatory.

Requirements

Ability to follow written specifications, measurement procedures, and standard operating procedures accurately.
Strong attention to detail and accurate data collection and documentation.
Basic computer skills for data entry and record management.
Ability to use testing equipment, including scales, thermometers, X-ray machines, and conductivity meters.
Ability to stand and move on the production floor for extended periods.
Ability to lift and carry up to 40 pounds as needed for sample collection and testing.
Ability to work in varying temperature conditions within a food manufacturing environment.
Must comply with GMP, allergen control, food safety, and workplace safety requirements.

Nice To Haves

Prior experience in food manufacturing quality control or laboratory testing.
Knowledge of GMP and food safety requirements.

Responsibilities

Obtain the specification sheet from the supervisor and verify the lot number, use-by date, batch code and number, and weights before production begins.
Set up the printer, weight checker machine, and X-ray machine at the start of each production run.
Perform X-ray and weight-check tests every hour during production.
Prepare and enter production run information accurately and promptly into the computer system.
Collect the first two packages off the line at the beginning of each run for preoperational testing.
Every 15 minutes, test product weight, temperature, salt content, volume, drain weight, and noodle weight when required, using two packages per test interval.
Perform conductivity testing every 15 minutes by collecting packages, checking drain weight, and verifying noodle weight when required.
Check seal integrity with pliers and measure the seal-area width on each test-interval sample.
After each run, print and verify production data, save the information, and test the X-ray and weight-checker equipment for end-of-run validation.
Thoroughly clean the testing and work area after production is complete.