Description

GENERAL SUMMARY:

This is an hourly position in   Manteno, IL that reports to the Quality Manager. QC Technician performs   hands-on routine & non-routine analysis of raw materials, in-process   & finished products using a variety of testing devices & procedures   to maintain product quality. Conducts GMP compliance inspections to ensure   product safety & over-all quality specifications are consistently   complied.

SCOPE OF JOB FUNCTION:

• Inspect in-coming materials for conformance to company standards.
• Perform analytical tests on samples, using standard methods of analysis specific to the raw material or finished product as per established procedures.
• Conduct various QC tests (Titratable Acidity, Total Salt, Viscosity, Moisture, pH, metal detector etc.) as per protocol, documents results & ensures specs compliance.
• Perform equipment calibrations (pH meter, weighing scale, thermometer, viscometer etc.)
• Perform periodic weight monitoring, alerts production on any non-compliance for prompt adjustment. 
• Perform hourly product leak detection tests or whenever necessary to ensure compliance.
• Perform bulk raw material testing, ensure specs conformance, & documents results.
• Determine & documents required corrections on in-process products as per analysis results.
• Confirm compliance with all other specifications including labeling, packaging, code dating & other customer specific requirements. 
• Perform calculations & submit records of analytical results in Safety Chain, Food Safety & Quality Management Systems.
• Conduct sensory test on finished products, compare with standard & ensures product consistency; promptly reports non-compliance to the QC Supervisor.
• Collect retention samples for future reference; ensure organized storage & periodic disposal following required retention period according to product types.
• Ensure that control samples for batch check reference is replaced as per guideline; keeps control samples organized for QC efficiency.
• Collect samples for micro testing following sampling guideline & storage.
• Inspect products retained for shelf life to substantiate product defect claim during the process of customer complaints investigation.
• Prepare flavors as per pick list required for daily production.
• Issue batch formula for daily production & ensures previous day’s formula are retrieved.
• Ensure that only approved specs deviation is used in actual production.
• Perform swab test, allergen test as per established procedures, documents results.
• Promptly reports to the Supervisor or Manager any unfavorable results if batch adjustment or if any corrective action does not resolve issues & provide input in problem Root Cause analysis & development. 
• Put “HOLD” tag to non-conforming products & promptly record in the MRB log & Safety Chain.
• Act as a backup for R&D & sales sample preparation.
• Act as a back for plating micro samples in the absence of microbiologist.
• Participate in work areas inspection to detect unsafe conditions. 
• Assist in product test runs, equipment validation as needed by QC Supervisor or R&D.
• Other duties as assigned.  

Requirements

REQUIRED:

• Degree in Technical background in Food Science, Chemistry, Microbiology, etc. or equivalent work experience.
• Competence in math & analytical calculations.
• Good organization skills & detailed reporting skills.
• Good communication & interpersonal skills.
• Prior experience in food manufacturing environment an advantage. 

DESIRED:

• Knowledge of general safety practices in a   manufacturing environment.