QA Specialist I - 3rd Shift (Food Quality & Compliance)

Socket.dev; Waukegan (IL); On-site; USD 45,000 - 58,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Annual bonus

Medical Insurance

Dental Insurance

Vision Insurance

401k with company match

Paid time off

Job summary

Woodland Gourmet is seeking a QA Specialist I to support QA processes on a 3rd shift, onsite role in Illinois. The incumbent will assist in quality inspections, allergen compliance, and data entry for QA documentation, reporting to the QA Supervisor/Manager.

Responsibilities include audits, sample testing, labeling checks, and collaboration with cross-functional teams to meet quality objectives. The role emphasizes GMP adherence and safety compliance across production lines.

Qualifications

• High School diploma is required.
• 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.
• 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.
• Bilingual proficiency in Spanish is helpful.
• Must be flexible with working hours, including the possibility of overtime and Saturdays.
• Ability to lift up to 55 lbs (anything over 55 lbs requires team lift).
• Must follow all company GMPs and consistently adhere to food safety, quality, and sanitation requirements.

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

Interpersonal communication

Time management

Attention to detail

Bilingual Spanish (helpful)

Education

High School diploma

Tools

Microsoft Office (Word)

Excel

Job description

Woodland Gourmet is seeking a QA Specialist I to support QA processes on a 3rd shift, onsite role in Illinois. The incumbent will assist in quality inspections, allergen compliance, and data entry for QA documentation, reporting to the QA Supervisor/Manager.

Responsibilities include audits, sample testing, labeling checks, and collaboration with cross-functional teams to meet quality objectives. The role emphasizes GMP adherence and safety compliance across production lines.