Quality Tech

Stellar-Snacks-LL; Louisville (KY); On-site; USD 42,000 - 54,000; Full time

Job summary

Stellar-Snacks-LL in Kentucky is seeking a quality control inspector to perform inspections on pretzel products throughout manufacturing, ensuring GMP, sanitation, and quality requirements are met. You will conduct sensory evaluations, measure dimensions, verify color, weight, and packaging accuracy, and use testing equipment for pH, water activity, and moisture analysis.

Strong attention to detail and documentation are essential.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED required.
• 1+ year(s) in food manufacturing, quality control/assurance preferred.
• Knowledge of GMPs, HACCP, allergen controls, and quality systems.
• Experience with product inspections, sampling, and testing is preferred.
• Ability to document and maintain quality records.

Responsibilities

• Perform quality inspections on pretzel products to meet standards.
• Conduct floor inspections every two hours for GMPs and sanitation.
• Inspect texture, color, shape, and packaging integrity.
• Perform sensory evaluations (texture, crunch, flavor, aroma).
• Test pH, water activity, moisture, and other quality metrics.
• Document findings, tests, and corrective actions promptly.
• Identify and escalate deviations to leadership; assist with investigations.
• Collaborate with Production, Maintenance, and Sanitation teams.

Skills

Attention to detail

Problem solving

Organizational skills

Communication skills

Independent worker

Microsoft Office

Electronic recordkeeping

PPE use

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Tools

pH testing

Water activity testing

Moisture analysis

Weight verification

Job description

Perform quality inspections on pretzel products throughout the manufacturing process to ensure compliance with company, customer, and food safety standards.Conduct production floor inspections every two (2) hours to verify adherence to GMPs, sanitation standards, operational procedures, and quality requirements.Inspect pretzels for deformities, ensuring proper shape, structure, and overall product consistency.Verify product coloration meets established quality standards and approved specifications.Ensure pretzels are not interconnected and maintain individual product integrity.Check for visual defects, including cracks, burns, contamination, improper seasoning application, or other irregularities.Confirm there are no double cuts, improper slicing, or processing defects.Measure pretzels for appropriate length, weight, and dimensional uniformity according to product specifications.Perform sensory evaluations to assess texture, crunch, flavor, aroma, and overall product quality.Conduct quality testing and analysis, including but not limited to:pH testingSalt concentration testingWater activity (Aw) testingMoisture testingWeight verificationProduct temperature monitoringPackaging seal verificationMetal detector validation and testingCollect and maintain product retention samples as required by quality procedures.Monitor ingredient usage and verify compliance with approved formulations and product specifications.Ensure allergen controls, label accuracy, and packaging compliance are maintained throughout production.Document inspection findings, quality checks, test results, and corrective actions accurately and in a timely manner.Identify, report, and escalate quality, food safety, and process deviations to Production and Quality leadership.Assist with investigations related to non-conforming products, customer complaints, and corrective action programs.Support internal audits, sanitation verification activities, and food safety initiatives.Collaborate with Production, Maintenance, and Sanitation teams to resolve quality issues and improve manufacturing processes.Follow all food safety, GMP, HACCP, SQF, and quality assurance protocols.QualificationsHigh School Diploma or GED required.One (1) or more years of experience in food manufacturing, quality control, quality assurance, or related manufacturing environments preferred.Knowledge of food safety principles, GMPs, HACCP, allergen control programs, and quality systems.Experience conducting product inspections, sampling, and quality testing preferred.Strong attention to detail with the ability to identify visual, structural, and process-related defects.Ability to accurately complete documentation and maintain quality records.Strong organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills.Ability to work independently and make decisions regarding product quality and food safety concerns.Basic computer skills, including Microsoft Office and electronic recordkeeping systems.Ability to work in a fast-paced manufacturing environment while maintaining accuracy and consistency.High School Diploma or GED required.One (1) or more years of experience in food manufacturing, quality control, quality assurance, or related manufacturing environments preferred.Knowledge of food safety principles, GMPs, HACCP, allergen control programs, and quality systems.Experience conducting product inspections, sampling, and quality testing preferred.Strong attention to detail with the ability to identify visual, structural, and process-related defects.Ability to accurately complete documentation and maintain quality records.Strong organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills.Ability to work independently and make decisions regarding product quality and food safety concerns.Basic computer skills, including Microsoft Office and electronic recordkeeping systems.Ability to work in a fast-paced manufacturing environment while maintaining accuracy and consistency.Physical RequirementsAbility to stand and walk for extended periods throughout a 10-12 hour shift.Ability to perform plant-wide inspections every two (2) hours.Frequent walking between production lines, quality stations, and warehouse areas.Ability to lift and carry up to 40 pounds occasionally.Ability to bend, stoop, reach, climb stairs, and perform repetitive motions.Manual dexterity required for sampling, testing, documentation, and product inspection activities.Ability to work in varying environmental conditions, including production, warehouse, and laboratory settings.Must be able to wear all required personal protective equipment (PPE).Preferred SkillsUnderstanding of pretzel, bakery, snack food, or food manufacturing processes.Knowledge of SQF, FDA regulations, food safety audits, and quality management systems.Experience using testing equipment for pH, water activity, moisture analysis, and other food quality measurements.Root cause analysis and corrective action experience.Strong commitment to food safety, product quality, and continuous improvement.Bilingual is a plus, Spanish preferred.