Quality Technician

Job Summary : We are seeking a detail-oriented and experienced Quality Technician to join our team in the pet food manufacturing industry. The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience with the Safe Quality Food (SQF) certification and a strong understanding of food safety, quality control processes, and regulatory requirements. The Quality Technician will play a key role in ensuring product quality, compliance with safety standards, and maintaining the SQF certification for our food production facility.

Key Responsibilities

Quality Control

• Conduct routine inspections of in-process production and finished products to ensure they meet quality specifications and safety standards.
• Perform sensory evaluations (appearance, texture, etc.) and laboratory testing as required.
• Monitor and verify proper implementation of quality procedures and standards throughout the production process. Compliance with SQF :
• Assist in maintaining and ensuring compliance with SQF certification requirements.
• Conduct internal audits to ensure adherence to SQF, GMP (Good Manufacturing Practices), and HACCP (Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point) systems.
• Support preparation for external SQF and regulatory audits.
• Maintain accurate documentation related to food safety, quality control, and SQF compliance.

Product Sampling & Testing

• Collect and prepare samples for testing in accordance with quality standards.
• Perform chemical, microbiological, and physical tests on raw materials, ingredients, and finished products.
• Record and analyze test results, identifying any deviations from quality standards and recommending corrective actions.

Root Cause Analysis & Corrective Action

• Investigate non-conformances or quality issues, conduct root cause analysis and implement corrective and preventive actions.
• Document findings and actions taken to resolve issues and track the effectiveness of corrective actions.

Documentation & Reporting

• Maintain detailed and accurate records of inspections, tests, audits, and quality activities.
• Prepare reports on quality trends, non-conformances, and corrective actions.
• Assist in generating reports for management review and continuous improvement initiatives.

Training & Support

• Provide training to production staff on quality standards, food safety practices, and SQF-related requirements.
• Assist with educating new team members on relevant quality procedures and protocols.

Continuous Improvement

• Actively participate in continuous improvement initiatives to optimize processes, reduce waste, and enhance product quality.
• Stay updated on industry best practices, emerging trends, and changes to SQF or food safety regulations.

Requirements

Qualifications

MUST BE BILINGUAL (ENG-SPA)

• Experience :
• 2+ years of experience as a Quality Technician in the food industry.
• Experience working with SQF certification and food safety systems (HACCP, GMP).
• Familiarity with industry regulations, such as FDA, USDA, or similar standards.
• Skills :
• Strong knowledge of quality control techniques, food safety practices, and lab testing methods.
• Ability to read and interpret technical specifications, blueprints, and quality standards.
• Proficient in using laboratory equipment and tools for testing (e.g., pH meters, thermometers, microscopes).
• Excellent attention to detail and analytical skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Education :
• A high school diploma or equivalent is required. A degree or certification in Food Science, Microbiology, or a related field is preferred.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand for long periods, lift up to 25 pounds, and work in a manufacturing environment.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and handle multiple tasks simultaneously.