What are the responsibilities and job description for the Quality Assurance Specialist position at Little Bear Produce?
PRIMARY PURPOSE: Responsible for ensuring that all products meet the company's quality standards and comply with industry regulations. The role involves overseeing the daily quality control activities, inspecting incoming and outgoing produce, maintaining records, and coordinating with other departments to maintain food safety and product quality. The Specialist will also be involved in troubleshooting quality issues and implementing corrective actions to ensure continuous improvement.
QUALIFICATIONS:
Education / Certification / License:
- High school diploma or equivalent (Required).
- Associate's or Bachelor's degree in food science, quality assurance, or a related field (Preferred).
- Certification in HACCP, SQF (Safe Quality Food), or other relevant food safety certifications (Preferred).
Experience:
- Proven experience in quality control/quality assurance preferably in a produce/agricultural environment.
- Familiarity with produce handling, storage, and transportation best practices.
- Experience with supplier quality management and auditing.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and familiarity with quality control management software.
Special Knowledge / Skills / Abilities:
- Bilingual - English & Spanish (Preferred).
- Strong knowledge of food safety regulations, HACCP, GMP, and USDA/FDA guidelines.
- Ability to identify issues, perform quality assessments, and follow through with resolutions.
- Ability to manage multiple tasks and prioritize effectively in a fast-paced environment.
- Ability to work effectively under pressure, prioritize tasks, and problem-solve in a fast-paced environment.
- Strong commitment to safety, quality, and continuous improvement to achieve operational excellence.
- Strong work ethic. Able to work effectively independently or as part of a team in a fast-paced environment.
- Strong attention to detail. Able to follow instructions, manage time effectively, and meet deadlines.
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills. Able to collaborate with internal & external stakeholders.
- Positive attitude. Dedicated, reliable, and committed to excellence in all aspects of work.
MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES/ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
- Quality Inspections:
o Conduct regular inspections of raw materials, produce, and finished goods to ensure compliance with quality standards and food safety regulations.
- Compliance Monitoring:
o Ensure compliance with local, state, and federal food safety regulations, including USDA, FDA, & HACCP requirements. Maintain up-to-date knowledge of industry standards/regulatory changes.
- Product Sampling:
o Perform sampling procedures to assess produce quality, including color, texture, size, and overall appearance, and maintain records of results.
- Problem Resolution:
o Identify and report any product defects or non-compliance issues and work with production and other departments to determine root causes and implement corrective actions.
- Documentation & Reporting:
o Maintain accurate quality control logs, inspection records, and reports. Generate and submit routine reports on quality and safety metrics to management.
- Training & Education:
o Train staff on quality assurance procedures, food safety practices, and sanitation protocols. Ensure that staff follows the correct procedures during production and packaging.
- Continuous Improvement:
o Collaborate with production and operations teams to improve quality control procedures and increase efficiency. Recommend improvements in processing, storage, and handling of produce to reduce waste and improve quality.
- Supplier Audits:
o Assist in conducting audits of suppliers and third-party vendors to ensure the quality and safety of incoming produce and packaging materials.
- Non-Conformance Management:
o Manage and follow up on non-conformance reports & facilitate corrective/preventive actions. Follow all safety procedures/guidelines and maintain a clean and safe work environment.
- Report employee accidents, safety hazards, equipment issues, and quality issues promptly.
- Must be willing to work flexible hours (including evenings, weekends, and holidays) as needed.
- Performs other tasks as assigned or requested.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $14.00 - $17.00 per hour
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance
Schedule:
- 8 hour shift
- Monday to Friday
- Weekends as needed
Language:
- both English and Spanish proficently (Required)
Work Location: In person
Salary : $14 - $17
