QA Tech

Alphia; Pittsburgh (Allegheny County); On-site; USD 34,000 - 42,000; Full time

Job summary

Alphia is seeking a Level I QA Technician in the United States to support sampling and testing on processing or packaging lines. The role involves operating NIR, Aw meter, LECO, and other instruments, while ensuring compliance with food safety and sanitation policies.

Strong communication and teamwork are essential. The technician will log test results, perform Hold procedures, and contribute to continuous quality improvement in a fast-paced production environment at Alphia’s facility in the

Qualifications

• Education and ability to follow basic GMP requirements.
• Willing to work in a team environment and contribute to group goals.
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to receive and provide instructions positively.
• Basic math skills and ability to multi-task.

Responsibilities

• Operate analytical instruments (NIR, Aw meter, LECO, moisture analyzer) and other equipment.
• Perform in-process sampling and testing for either processing or packaging.
• Enter data from routine tests into IQS software and maintain quality records.
• Place materials or products on Hold in X3 and complete Hold reports.
• Communicate testing results and quality status to shift personnel.

Skills

Excellent communication

Basic math

Multi-tasking

Team environment

Education

High school diploma or GED

Tools

NIR

Aw meter

CompuTrac moisture analyzer

Calipers

LECO

Laboratory weigh scales

Vacuum chamber for seal checks

Thermometers

Job description

Job Description:

JOB PURPOSE: The Level I QA Technician position is intended to be a “starting” point, from which the technician is expected to advance to capability on both sides of the process before the two year “target.” The Level I Technician should be capable of the required sampling and testing on either the processing or packaging side of the process with some assistance from the other QA technicians or leads. The Level I Technician should have a good working knowledge of Food Safety and Quality policies.

DESCRIPTION OF ESSENTIAL DUTIES:

Analytical Instruments: Operate the NIR, Aw meter, CompuTrac moisture analyzer, calipers, LECO, laboratory weigh scales, vacuum chamber for seal checks (PC), thermometers and other equipment as added. In-Process Sampling and Testing: Completes all routine tests required for either Processing side or Packaging side. Quality Hold Know and be able to place materials and product on Hold in X3 and physical Hold, and complete Log and Hold report. Business Systems: Enter data collected from routine tests into IQS software. Knowledge and proficiency in all Alphia Business Systems as relates to Position. Food Safety and Sanitation: Know and follow basic GMP requirements. Know and monitor HACCP compliance in-Process. Perform verification checks of metal detectors and magnets in area of responsibility as specified in Quality Checkpoints. Assist with product changeover cleaning and sanitation; perform inspections required before product startup. Microbial Testing: Pull finished product samples for product release testing. Regulatory Requirements: Pull samples for testing as required in product specifications. Communication: Informs operators and shift supervisor of testing results. Communicates Quality concerns and Quality status to the following shift. Responsible for following established procedures to ensure that Alphia produces safe, quality food, meeting all governmental regulations. Other duties as directed or assigned.

QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS:

(To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required). Education level: high school diploma or GED required. Willing to work in a team environment and contribute to group goals. Excellent communication skills Ability to receive and provide instructions positively. Basic math skills Ability to multi-task.

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. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential function. The phrases “occasionally,” “regularly,” and “frequently” correspond to the following definitions: “occasionally” means up to 25% of working time, “regularly” means between 26 and 75% of working time, and “frequently” means 76% and more of working time.) While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk or hear, walk, and move from place to place. The employee is occasionally required to sit, use foot/feet to operate machine, stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl or reach above shoulders. The employee is frequently required to stand and use hands to finger, handle, or touch. The employee must be able to climb stairs and ladders. The employee must exert 20 to 50 pounds of force occasionally, and / or up to 10 to 25 pounds of force frequently, and / or greater than negligible up to 10 pounds of force constantly. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.

WORK ENVIRONMENT:

(The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions). The employee may be frequently exposed to allergens and/or airborne particles in the production area. Production employees are exposed to temperatures ranging from 50 to 115 degrees, depending on the season and workstation, and may be working near moving mechanical parts. Occasional exposure to outdoor weather conditions may occur. The noise level in the work environment may be loud while production equipment is running. Personal Protection Equipment (including boots, gloves, safety glasses, and/or face shields) is required during various processes in the production area. Ear plugs and bump caps are always required in the production area. The above statements reflect the general details necessary to describe the principal functions of the occupation described and shall not be construed as a detailed description of all the work requirements that may be inherent in the occupation. Alphia is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

Welcome to Alphia Careers! Hi there! We are Alphia, a leading pet food manufacturer dedicated to providing safe, high-quality food to feed more pets. Our team is committed to ensuring that we consistently provide the highest level of quality and service for our customers. We believe pets are the heart of all families, and we are dedicated to nourish and protect them.