FSQ Technician I

SunOpta; Allentown (Lehigh County); On-site; Full time

Job summary

An innovative and sustainable manufacturer is seeking a Quality Assurance Technician to ensure product quality and safety at their Allentown facility. This role involves performing essential laboratory tests, maintaining equipment, and collaborating with team members to uphold high standards of quality assurance. The ideal candidate will be passionate about food safety and quality, with a strong ability to communicate and work independently. Join a forward-thinking company committed to crafting organic, plant-based products and making a positive impact in the food industry. This is a fantastic opportunity for someone looking to grow in a dynamic environment.

Qualifications

• High school diploma required; 2+ years experience preferred.
• Strong problem-solving skills and ability to work independently.

Responsibilities

• Perform laboratory testing to ensure product quality and safety.
• Communicate lab data effectively with supervisors and team members.
• Maintain cleanliness and organization in the lab environment.

Skills

Laboratory Testing

Quality Assurance

Problem Solving

Communication

Teamwork

Education

High School Diploma or Equivalent

Food Science/Food Technology Experience

Tools

Microbiology Testing Equipment

Laboratory Equipment

Job description

Allentown Facility, Allentown, Pennsylvania, United States of America

Job Description

Posted Monday, February 3, 2025 at 5:00 AM

SunOpta Overview:

SunOpta (Nasdaq:STKL) (TSX:SOY) is an innovative and sustainable manufacturer fueling the future of food. With roots tracing back over 50 years, SunOpta drives growth for today’s leading brands by serving as a trusted innovation partner and value-added manufacturer, crafting organic, plant-based beverages, fruit snacks, nutritional beverages, broths and tea products sold through retail, club, foodservice and e-commerce channels. Alongside the company’s commitment to top brands, retailers and coffee shops, SunOpta also proudly produces its own brands, including SOWN, Dream, and West Life. For more information, visit SunOpta and LinkedIn.

SunOpta is looking for talented individuals that demonstrate our most valued behaviors: Passion, Dedication, Speed, Entrepreneurship, Customer-Centricity, and Problem-Solver, to help create a brighter, healthier, and sustainable future of food!

Quality Assurance Technician I - Team D
Pay Rate: $26.75 + Plus $2.00
Schedule: 5:30 PM – 6:00 AM
12-hour shifts 2-2-3 rotating weekends.
Reports To: Melissa Raposa

Job Summary:
The Quality Assurance (QA) Technician is responsible for performing necessary laboratory testing to ensure ingredients, product and packaging conform to specifications. QA Technician follows written and verbal instructions to determine that quality and efficiency standards are being met. In addition, the QA Technician is responsible for the efficiency, safety and quality of laboratory work and for effective communication relative to shift and plant performance.

Essential Functions of the Job:

1. Assure package integrity and product quality by performing laboratory testing and aseptic package evaluation procedures.
2. Perform laboratory testing such as pH, solids/moisture, sodium, etc.
3. Perform destructive aseptic package testing.
4. Assist with investigations related to product spoilage.
5. Collect and communicate lab data with Quality Supervisor and Operations Shift Leaders.
6. Perform incubation activities according to standard operating procedures.
7. Maintain a clean and organized workstation.
8. Troubleshoot and resolve basic to moderate operating difficulties involving area equipment.
9. Responsible for laboratory equipment calibrations at specified intervals.
10. Accurately prepares and maintains all area paperwork.
11. Perform microbiology testing including basic plating in clean room environment, stocking lab, shipping samples, retrieving results, and communicating to management as needed.
12. All other duties, as assigned.

Key Accountabilities:
Safety
• Follow all facility human and food safety policies including proper use of PPE.
• Report all near misses and accidents to the production supervisor.
Quality
• Follow Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to conduct required testing for products prior to processing, after processing and prior to product release.
• Must comply and support the HACCP program.
Housekeeping
• Cooperates with other shifts and management team for facility housekeeping endeavors.
Communication
• Ensure teamwork with management and operators occurs during each scheduled shift.
Teamwork and Training
• Promote and contribute to the development of teamwork among production team members.
Personal Development
• Continuous learning of the Aseptic batching, sterilization and filling processes.

Knowledge and Skills:

1. Confident with independent work.
2. Able to evaluate a situation and make a good decision or escalate appropriately.
3. Good past work history.
4. Good attendance.
5. Able to stand for long periods of time.
6. Able to do repetitive work.
7. Able to lift a minimum of 50 pounds and at times more.

Minimum Qualifications:
• High school diploma or equivalent.

Preferred Qualifications:
• 2+ years related experience in Food Science/Food Technology, or a food or beverage production facility.

Additional Considerations:
• Travel: Some travel may be required to various locations for meetings and other job-related functions.
• Location: This position will be located at SunOpta Plant Allentown PA.

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.