QA Tech I

Ventura Foods; Albert Lea (MN); On-site; USD 28,929 - 39,950; Part time

Job summary

Ventura Foods is seeking an entry‑level Laboratory Technician to support quality testing and data documentation in our manufacturing environment. Under supervision, you will assist with routine tests and help answer processing questions for safety and product consistency.

You will gain hands-on experience with lab equipment, process controls, and QA procedures while contributing to compliance with FSMA, GMPs, and SQF standards. This onsite role involves shifts and potential long hours as needed.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma/GED or equivalent experience.
• 1 year of experience.
• Manufacturing lab environment experience preferred.

Responsibilities

• Learn to accurately test, monitor, and document quality results and process data for products produced.
• Using RedZone: Audit, verify and follow up process controls such as weight checks, batch sheets, FSMA plant inspections, receiving, etc.
• Support process variations as they relate to formula adjustments to satisfy customer requirements.
• Maintain a high and effective level of communication with all operating departments.
• Learn to operate, calibrate, and maintain lab equipment. Learn, understand and apply the functionality of the Hold Program.
• Maintain and complete files and documentation accurately and timely.
• Utilize AS400 and/or JDE computer system for necessary quality functions.
• Work toward gaining knowledge and understanding of the crystallizing and tempering process for oils and margarines, the process for mayonnaises, dressings, and sauces production.
• Responsible for following all food safety policies, procedures and regulatory criteria including the current SQF code, Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs), and the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) and associated preventive controls.
• Other duties as assigned

Skills

Chemistry training

Math

Communication skills

Self-starter

Teamwork

Interpersonal skills

Education

High School Diploma/GED

Tools

AS400

JDE

Job description

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Location: Albert Lea, MN, US, 56007

Employment Type: Hourly
Shift: Second
Work Arrangement:Onsite
Pay Rate:$25.00

Position Summary:

Under direct supervision, perform a variety of routine laboratory tests or other laboratory work to help provide top quality and safe products that meet customer requirements and specifications. Assist plant operations personnel with quality and processing questions.

Major Duties and Responsibilities:

• Learn to accurately test, monitor, and document quality results and process data for products produced
• Using RedZone: Audit, verify and follow up process controls such as weight checks, batch sheets, FSMA plant inspections, receiving, etc.
• Support process variations as they relate to formula adjustments to satisfy customer requirements
• Maintain a high and effective level of communication with all operating departments
• Learn to operate, calibrate, and maintain lab equipment. Learn, understand and apply the functionality of the Hold Program
• Maintain and complete files and documentation accurately and timely
• Utilize AS400 and/or JDE computer system for necessary quality functions
• Work toward gaining knowledge and understanding of the crystallizing and tempering process for oils and margarines, the process for mayonnaises, dressings, and sauces production
• Responsible for following all food safety policies, procedures and regulatory criteria including the current SQF code, Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs), and the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) and associated preventive controls
• Other duties as assigned

Education and Experience:

• High School Diploma/GED or equivalent experience
• 1 year of experience
• Manufacturing lab environment experience preferred

Knowledge and Skills:

• Chemistry training
• Good math, problem solving, and organizational skills
• Effective written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to work with minimum supervision and be a self-starter
• Excellent teamwork and good interpersonal skills, with the ability to interact well with others at all levels

Why Join Us:
Ventura Foods innovates and manufactures food solutions for foodservice and retail businesses. We make exclusive products for the world's most iconic restaurants and retailers, we provideready-to-goproduct solutions for professional kitchens, and we make consumer brands everyone knows and loves. When you work for Ventura Foods, you get a strong foundation of training, a manager who cares about you and celebrates your success, a safe environment, and challenging work. As part of our team, your future is limited only by how much you’re willing to push yourself to get there. We invest in your growth because you invest in ours.

Ventura Foods offers career growth opportunities as well as competitive compensation and benefits:

• Medical, Prescription, Dental, & Vision – coverage beginning on your 1st day for eligible employees
• Profit Sharing and 401(k) matching (after eligible criteria is met)
• Paid Vacation, Sick Time, and Holidays
• Employee Appreciation Events and Employee Assistance Programs

Physical Demands:
All jobs require sufficient physical strength and dexterity to perform the required task(s)and typically also require at a minimum: intermittent sitting, standing, walking, climbing, squatting, kneeling, pushing, and pulling. Occasional lifting and/or moving up to 50 pounds or more with assistance may also be required. Please see the job description for specific requirements.

Work Environment:
Please see the job description for specific requirements of the position for which you are applying.

Typical shifts are 8-12 hours per day. Additional unscheduled time after hours and on weekends may also be required. Employees must be willing and able to wear personal protective equipment as required by Company policy and/or legal requirements. In addition, certain jobs may require employees to:

• Work outside and/or in adverse temperatures which could include extreme heat, cold, and humidity;
• Be exposed to vibrations, chemicals used inoperations, fumes and food allergens (may include soy, dairy and other allergens); and
• Be required to work in confined and dark spaces, and at heights in excess of 18 feet.

Diversity & Inclusion:
Our commitment to a diverse and inclusive environment in which all employees are treated with respect is evident in our company culture and values. We believe that fostering an environment of inclusion and a focus on diversity across our organization is vital to attracting top talent, driving innovation, and meeting the high expectations of our customers in a rapidly evolving global marketplace

Ventura Foods is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status or any other characteristic protected by law.