Quality Assurance Specialist I (3rd Shift)
Woodland Foods
- Waukegan, IL
- Permanent
- Full-time
- Collect and archive library samples from the Receiving department
- Conduct quality and food safety audits individually or as part of a team
- Ensure proper labeling and paperwork for inbound products
- Perform equipment cleaning and ATP swabbing after sanitation processes
- Ensure allergen compliance on production lines
- Evaluate product samples at the time of receiving, considering factors such as appearance, size, moisture analysis, and ingredient statements
- Conduct initial evaluations of possible quality issues
- Assist with handling various returns that may include inspection of customer concerns
- Assist with general data entry on QA-related documents, such as product information and Vendor Certificate of Analysis
- Audit all receipts and paperwork for accuracy in terms of items and quantities
- Conduct any other functions as required by the QA department
- Conduct pre-operational inspections at production site
- Inspect equipment used daily and report any issues as needed
- Responsible for sticker removal/application for INAFS items
- Manage product sampling necessary for Certificate of Analysis creation
- Conduct internal incident investigations
- Perform Gluten testing on Gluten-free products and lines
- Release products that are on hold when approval is received
- Generate maintenance work requests linked to Quality/Food Safety
- Perform in-house sample testing, including testing for moisture, size, and water activity
- High School diploma required
- Bachelor’s degree or 5 years of work experience
- Bilingual proficiency in Spanish helpful
- Troubleshooting, data analysis, and investigative skills are essential
- Strong computer skills, including proficiency in Microsoft Office Word and Excel, are required
- Ability to work with minimal supervision
- Excellent report writing, interpersonal, and communication skills (written and verbal)
- Strong organizational and time management skills
- Experience working with inventory systems is a plus.
- Attention to detail is a required attribute is a plus.
- Previous experience in the quality food industry is a plus.
- Knowledge of food safety, food manufacturing processes, technologies, or relevant areas of responsibility is a plus.
- Familiarity with government regulatory requirements in food (GFSI, FSMA, FDA) is a plus.
- Must be flexible with working hours, including the possibility of overtime and Saturdays.
- Must follow all company GMPs and consistently adhere to food safety, quality, and sanitation requirements.
- The position may require occasional lifting, bending, and extended periods of standing or sitting in a manufacturing environment.
- Must be able to lift up to 55 lbs (anything over 55 lbs requires team lift).