Quality Specialist - Dry Sweeteners

Heartland Food Products Group is a global leader in the consumer packaged goods (CPG) industry, producing low-calorie sweeteners, coffee, coffee creamers and liquid water enhancers. We manufacture and market Splenda, the #1 brand in the low calorie sweetener category and the most recognized in the world.

We make coffee, tea and water taste better and help people live happier, healthier and longer lives by making it easy to reduce sugar.

We offer an excellent compensation and benefits package. Come grow with us! **This position is for our Dry Sweeteners department**

Scope:

The Quality Assurance Specialist plays an essential role in continuous improvement and assists with maintenance of documentation and specifications in blending and packaging operations. The Specialist role requires an organized individual with the ability to complete projects and tasks on a timely basis and documentation of permanent records for the company and its customers. The specialist works with the LWE Quality Supervisor to help drive continuous improvement of the process and systems which deliver exceptional products to our consumers. To be successful, a candidate will need to be curious about learning all aspects of the company. Organizational skills are required as this position requires documentation of permanent records for the company and its customers.

Essential Duties and Key Responsibilities:

• Maintain a work environment committed to sustainable safety by enforcing safety rules, setting a safe example, coaching and communicating to department associates the reasons for safe operations.
• Review production process and associated records. Effectively communicate problems to production management and initiates corrective procedures (CAPA).
• Initiate and investigate supplier nonconformances.
• Monitor consumer and customer complaints and develops KPIs and implements complaint reduction projects in alignment with the Plant Manager.
• Responsible for initiating appropriate actions that address Food Safety and Quality concerns, including escalation to Quality and Management.
• Support the creation and maintenance of the MSPEC’s with production processes.
• Responsible for developing quality trainings, OPLs, or procedures and presenting to respected parties. Presenting Quality and Food Safety topics for new hire orientation.
• Assist in the maintenance of the SQF code guidance spreadsheet.
• Assist in internal audit program.
• Supports the Food Safety Plan and QMS process.
• Collaborate with site and department leaders to develop and maintain the most efficient quality assurance procedures for respective areas.
• Generate ideas for continuous quality improvement and participate in the development and implementation of new policies, procedures and/or programs.
• Must be available to assist off hours if required.

Qualifications

• BS Degree required, Food Science, Microbiology or Engineering preferred
• 1-3 years of food manufacturing QA experience. Knowledge of liquid blending and packaging technology preferred.
• HACCP Certification from a nationally / internationally recognized and accredited HACCP training firm or currently in the process of obtaining preferred
• Knowledge of FDA regulations and SQF experience required
• Strong expertise in Quality Assurance and cGMP/GDP requirements
• Must have strong organizational and leadership skills
• Demonstrated ability to work with cross functional departments within the organization
• Strong communication skills required – both verbal and written
• Excellent problem-solving skills and corrective action/resolution skills
• Strong computer skills with experience using Word, Excel, Power Point

Physical Demands:

• Must be able to physically perform the functions of climbing, balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, reaching, standing, walking, pushing, pulling, lifting, grasping, feeling, talking, hearing, and repetitive motions
• Must be able to work seated using a computer and phone for long periods of time.
• Must be able to work extended hours, such as overtime and an occasional weekend
• Must possess visual acuity to document company records
• Continuous walking throughout plant and distribution center
• Lifting up to 40 pounds