Food QA Specialist I: Quality & Safety Focus

Woodland Foods; Waukegan (IL); On-site; USD 45,000 - 58,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Annual bonus

Job summary

Woodland Gourmet is seeking a QA Specialist I (3rd Shift) to support quality assurance processes in our Illinois facility. You will assist in monitoring product quality, conduct inspections, and ensure compliance with regulatory requirements under the Quality Assurance department.

Responsibilities include collecting and auditing samples, lab testing, labeling accuracy, allergen checks, and supporting incident investigations.

Qualifications

• High School diploma is required.
• Troubleshooting, data analysis, and investigative skills are essential.
• Strong computer skills, including proficiency in Microsoft 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.

Responsibilities

• 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.

Skills

Troubleshooting

Data analysis

Investigative skills

Report writing

Communication

Organization

Time management

Overtime flexibility

Bilingual Spanish (helpful)

Education

High School diploma

Tools

Microsoft Word

Microsoft Excel

Job description

Woodland Gourmet is seeking a QA Specialist I (3rd Shift) to support quality assurance processes in our Illinois facility. You will assist in monitoring product quality, conduct inspections, and ensure compliance with regulatory requirements under the Quality Assurance department.

Responsibilities include collecting and auditing samples, lab testing, labeling accuracy, allergen checks, and supporting incident investigations.