Quality Assurance Specialist I (2nd Shift)

Woodland Gourmet; Waukegan (IL); On-site; USD 45,000 - 58,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company in the food industry is seeking a Quality Assurance Specialist I for the 2nd shift. This role involves supporting quality assurance processes, conducting inspections, and ensuring compliance with regulations. The ideal candidate will have strong analytical skills and attention to detail. This is an onsite position offering a competitive salary and benefits.

Qualifications

• High School diploma required; Bachelor’s degree or 5 years of relevant experience preferred.
• Experience in the food industry and knowledge of food safety regulations are advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Conduct quality and food safety audits individually or as part of a team.
• Ensure proper labeling and paperwork for inbound products.
• Maintain records of all QA activities.

Skills

Troubleshooting

Data Analysis

Investigative Skills

Interpersonal Skills

Communication Skills

Organizational Skills

Attention to Detail

Bilingual in Spanish

Education

High School diploma

Bachelor’s degree

Tools

Microsoft Office Word

Microsoft Excel

Job description

Quality Assurance Specialist I (2nd Shift)

Join to apply for the Quality Assurance Specialist I (2nd Shift) role at Woodland Gourmet.

Reports to: Quality Assurance Lab Manager

Travel: None

Department: Quality Assurance

Summary:

The QA Specialist I is responsible for supporting the implementation and maintenance of quality assurance processes and procedures within the organization. This role will assist in monitoring product quality, conducting inspections, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements, and providing general support to the Quality Assurance department. The QA Specialist I will report to the Quality Assurance Supervisor/Manager and collaborate with cross-functional teams to achieve quality objectives.

Responsibilities and Duties:

• Collect and archive library samples from the Receiving & Production 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 receiving and manufacturing, considering appearance, size, moisture, and ingredients.
• Assess potential quality issues in inbound shipments.
• Assist with data entry on QA documents such as product info and Vendor Certificates of Analysis.
• Audit receipts and paperwork for accuracy.
• Conduct pre-operational inspections at the production site.
• Inspect equipment used daily and report issues.
• Handle sticker removal/application for INAFS items.
• Conduct internal incident investigations.
• Perform gluten testing on gluten-free products and lines.
• Release products on hold upon approval.
• Maintain records of all QA activities.

Qualifications and Requirements:

• High School diploma required; Bachelor’s degree or 5 years of relevant experience preferred.
• Strong troubleshooting, data analysis, and investigative skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Word and Excel.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
• Excellent report writing, interpersonal, and communication skills.
• Strong organizational and time management skills.
• Experience with inventory systems is a plus.
• Attention to detail is essential.
• Experience in the food industry and knowledge of food safety regulations are advantageous.
• Familiarity with GFSI, FSMA, FDA regulations is a plus.
• Bilingual in Spanish is helpful.
• Flexible working hours, including overtime, weekends.
• Ability to lift up to 55 lbs.
• Adherence to GMPs and food safety standards.

Physical Requirements:

Occasional lifting, bending, standing, or sitting in a manufacturing environment. This role may require extended periods in such conditions.

This description may change based on organizational needs. The QA Specialist I will perform other duties as assigned by the QA Manager/Supervisor.

This is an onsite role.

Woodland Gourmet offers a competitive salary ($45,000 - $58,000), benefits, and an incentive program. We are committed to a diverse and inclusive workplace and participate in E-Verify to confirm employment eligibility.