Quality Assurance Specialist

About Oppy

Grow Our Tomorrow. Oppy is a leading grower, marketer and distributor of fresh produce from around the world. As one of North America’s top produce companies for nearly 165 years, we bring over 100 varieties of produce from 27 countries to 1,300 retailers in North America and throughout the world. As much as agriculture has shaped the past for humankind, Oppy’s efforts shape its future by sustainably providing families with healthy, safe and fresh produce to create a better quality of life for all. Our progressive team is called to a higher purpose that raises the economic wellbeing of families and communities who work the land.

Recognized as one Canada’s Best Managed Companies (for the last 20 years!) and a Top 100 Employer, our diverse team of dedicated professionals collaborate and make connections across our locations throughout North and South America. We owe our success to our adaptability, innovative and entrepreneurial approach, our commitment to our people, and the incredible relationships we build. We are looking for talented people who love a fast-paced, dynamic environment where you can grow your skills and career in a sector with abundant opportunity. Grow your tomorrow with us, today.

Overview

The Quality Assurance Specialist (known internally as "Manufacturing Quality Assurance Specialist") oversees manufacturing/repack operations, ensuring that customer specifications are met, and all operational requirements are maintained. Uses expertise in quality control methodology and standards to minimize product losses and maximize returns for the company and grower. Proactively communicates to internal departments and external stakeholders to facilitate efficient packaging, movement and handling of product.

Accountabilities

• Using knowledge of product grade standards, methods and techniques of produce inspection, oversees repack facilities to ensure that Oppy customer specifications are met.
• Manages work orders, prioritizes repack schedule and relays any changes to parties.
• Ensures food safety standards are maintained, appropriate packaging & pallet bases are used, and requirements are as per work order instructions.
• Monitors the condition and quality of products in inventory for repack work orders; assists in managing inventory rotation.
• Assists in the selection of products for work orders using QC ratings; uses available information to forecast needs and adjust plans as necessary.
• Works to minimize product losses and maximize returns for growers and the company.
• Coordinates and communicates with Slotters and DOT regarding product readiness (ETC) for outbound orders.
• Communicates key elements of the repack process with commodity managers via email or phone; sends documentation on work order progress that includes pictures and descriptions.
• Utilizes Grower notification systems to alert growers and/or commodity managers on high priority product or packaging issues.
• Proactively alerts appropriate parties of issues that arise; works to find solutions and escalates problems where necessary.
• Builds and maintains cooperative relationships with related internal and external parties.

Required Knowledge & Abilities

• Knowledge of product grade standards, methods, and techniques of produce inspection.
• Working knowledge of Microsoft Excel, Word, and Outlook.
• Excellent communication (written & verbal) and customer service skills; ability to work effectively and collaboratively with multiple departments and external stakeholders.
• Proven ability to build and maintain effective internal and external working relationships with retail and grower partners, customers, and across the organization.
• Self-motivated and able to work with minimal supervision, demonstrating integrity and trust in all activities.
• Excellent time management and multi-tasking skills, remaining organized and accurate at all times.
• Ability to work effectively and safely at all times, remaining calm and adhering to protocol in challenging situations.
• Strong problem-solving skills with the ability to identify, analyze, and resolve issues using good judgment and creative thinking.
• Ability to work varied shift types, including evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed.
• Ability to travel as needed to perform inspections offsite at various grower locations.
• Ability to work in a warehouse/cold storage environment for extended periods of time.

Required Qualifications

• Degree, diploma in Agronomy or Agricultural Engineering, or industry training in a related field is an asset.
• Minimum, 1 - 2 years experience in quality control, operations or production in the produce industry.
• USDA and/or CFIA training is an asset.
• HACCP and food safety certification is considered an asset.
• Spanish language is an asset.

Notice of E-Verify Participation

Oppy participates in E-Verify and will provide the federal government with your Form I-9 Authorization to confirm that you are authorized to work in the U.S.

For more information on E-Verify, please visit: www.dhs.gov/e-verify

Inclusion and Equal Opportunity Employment

Oppy is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer who actively seeks to recruit retain individuals from diverse backgrounds and experiences. We are dedicated to fostering a culture where every employee feels valued, respected, and empowered to be themselves at work. We care about the uniqueness of our applicants, employees, and partners. Diversity is fundamental to our success because it brings a range of perspectives that fuel innovation and excellence. That's why we're focused on creating an inclusive culture where every employee can contribute their unique talents and ideas.

We gratefully thank all applicants for their interest, however, only candidates under consideration will be contacted directly.

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Benefits:

• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Professional development assistance
• Referral program
• Tuition reimbursement
• Vision insurance

Schedule:

• 8 hour shift
• Monday to Friday
• Overtime
• Weekends as needed

Application Question(s):

• Have you completed training or certifications provided by the USDA or CFIA related to food safety, inspection, or quality assurance?
• How many years of fresh produce industry experience do you have?

Education:

• Associate (Preferred)

Experience:

• Quality assurance: 1 year (Preferred)
• Quality control: 1 year (Preferred)

License/Certification:

• HACCP Certification (Preferred)
• Food Safety Certification (Preferred)

Shift availability:

• Day Shift (Preferred)

Ability to Commute:

• PA 19374, USA (Required)

Work Location: In person