FSQ Technician I

SunOpta; Allentown (Lehigh County); On-site; USD 32,000 - 46,000; Full time

Job summary

SunOpta is seeking an FSQ Technician to perform laboratory testing to ensure ingredients, product and packaging meet specifications. The role emphasizes QA responsibilities, shift-based work and collaboration with the FSQ Supervisor.

You will handle pH, solids/moisture, microbiology testing, aseptic packaging evaluation, and maintain documentation. The position requires standing for long periods and ability to lift up to 50 lbs; rotating weekends on 12-hour shifts.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• 2+ years related experience in Food Science/Food Technology or a food/beverage production facility preferred.

Responsibilities

• Perform laboratory testing such as pH, solids/moisture, and sodium.
• Perform destructive aseptic packaging testing.
• Assist with investigations related to product spoilage.
• Collect and communicate lab data with Quality Supervisor and Operations Shift Leaders.
• Maintain a clean and organized workstation.
• Troubleshoot and resolve basic to moderate equipment issues.
• Calibrate laboratory equipment at specified intervals.
• Prepare and maintain all area paperwork.
• Perform microbiology testing including plating and communicating results to management.

Skills

Laboratory testing

Aseptic technique

Detail oriented

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

Lab equipment

Microbiology testing

Job description

FSQ Technician - Team C

Pay Rate: $28.50 +2.00 Shift Differential

Schedule: 5:30 PM – 6:00 AM

12-hour shifts 2-2-3 rotating weekends.

FLSA Status (US): Non-Exempt

Reports To: FSQ Supervisor

Job Summary

The FSQ 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

Assure package integrity and product quality by performing laboratory testing and aseptic package evaluation procedures

• Perform laboratory testing such as pH, solids/moisture, sodium, etc
• Perform destructive aseptic package testing
• Assist with investigations related to product spoilage
• Collect and communicate lab data with Quality Supervisor and Operations Shift Leaders
• Perform incubation activities according to standard operating procedures
• Maintain a clean and organized workstation
• Troubleshoot and resolve basic to moderate operating difficulties involving area equipment
• Responsible for laboratory equipment calibrations at specified intervals
• Accurately prepares and maintains all area paperwork
• Perform microbiology testing including basic plating in clean room environment, stocking lab, shipping samples, retrieving results, and communicating to management as needed
• 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

Understand SQF code, FSMA, HACCP, and Food Defense. Awareness of Food Safety and Quality requirements that pertain to the plant and specific role. Follow Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to conduct required testing for products prior to processing, after processing and prior to product release

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

Supervisory Responsibilities: None

• Confident with independent work
• Able to evaluate a situation and make a good decision or escape appropriately
• Good past work history
• Good attendance
• Able to stand for long periods of time
• Able to do repetitive work Able to lift a minimum of 50 pounds and at times more

Education/ Experience

High school diploma or equivalent required

2+ years related experience in Food Science/Food Technology or a food or beverage production facility preferred

Travel Requirements

Potential for travel to various SunOpta locations and for meetings or other job-related functions.

Work Environment/Physical Demands

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Approximately; 95% of work is performed in a manufacturing/lab environment. 5% of work may involve being in an office environment. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to use hands to finger, handle or feel; reach with hands and arms; climb or balance; stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl, talk or hear and taste or smell. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 lbs. The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. 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.

The Employer is an Equal Opportunity Employer. The Employer does not discriminate in employment and no question on this application is used for the purpose of limiting or excusing any applicant’s consideration for employment on a basis prohibited by local, state, or federal law.

EOE M/W/Vet/Disabled