Quality Technician 2nd Shift

Ragozzino Foods, Inc.; Meriden (CT); On-site; USD 55,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

Ragozzino Foods, Inc. is seeking a Quality Control Technician to oversee QA/QC processes, HACCP, GMPs, sanitation programs, and regulatory compliance. This role collaborates with production teams to ensure safety and quality across all products.

The technician will perform inspections, calibrations, and data recording, supporting SQF initiatives and regulatory audits. English proficiency and ability to lift 30 lbs are required.

Qualifications

• High School diploma or equivalent.
• 1-2 years of Production Line Experience in food industry a plus.
• Proficiency in following USDA and FDA codes, rules, and regulations.
• English, bilingual preferred.
• Ability to lift at least 30 lbs.

Responsibilities

• Ensure product specifications are met by measurements, data analysis, and collaboration with production.
• Conduct daily pre-operational inspections, visual checks, and ATP swab testing.
• Calibrate and verify scales, thermometers, metal detectors, and X-ray equipment.
• Monitor sanitation; record sanitizer concentrations and CCP data.
• Record and communicate quality deviations to QA Manager and Shift Supervisor.
• Assist with audits and regulatory compliance with USDA and SQF initiatives.
• Maintain documentation for production records and quality checks.
• Assist with lab sampling and microbiological analysis scheduling.

Skills

Production line experience

Team player

Communication skills

Education

High School diploma or equivalent

Job description

Summary: The Quality Control Technician is primarily responsible for quality assurance of all products through administration of HACCP, GMP’s, Sanitation, Pest Management and other programs that ensure regulatory compliance and education of staff. The position supports the Quality, Food Safety and SQF initiatives outlined in the Quality Manual and SQF Program.Essential Job Functions:Ensure product specifications are consistently met by performing measurements, recording results, analyzing data, and collaborating with production personnel to drive continuous improvement.Conduct and document daily pre-operational inspections, including visual checks and ATP swab testing using a luminometer, to verify that production areas are approved for startup.Inspect equipment and production areas for rust, damage, or peeling paint to prevent potential foreign material contamination.Calibrate, verify, and document accuracy of scales, thermometers, metal detectors, and X-ray equipment at the start of each production shift.Monitor, test, and record sanitizer concentrations to ensure compliance with sanitation standards.Perform hourly verification of metal detection and X-ray systems to ensure proper operation and food safety compliance.Prepare, maintain, and complete all required documentation for production records, quality checks, and regulatory compliance.Verify product weights during processing and packaging to ensure compliance with internal specifications and customer requirements.Record and document all Critical Control Point (CCP) data, including temperatures and time controls, in accordance with HACCP requirements.Identify, document, and communicate quality deviations or process deficiencies to the QA Manager and Shift Supervisor in a timely manner.Record and document Quality Control Holds for ingredients and finished products based on specifications.Maintain compliance with USDA regulations, HACCP plans, and GMP standards throughout production operations.Collaborate with USDA inspectors during audits, inspections, and ongoing regulatory compliance activities.Partner with production supervisors and team members to ensure adherence to quality standards and customer specifications.Ensure proper availability and placement of required production supplies, including gloves, hairnets, beard nets, hearing protection, aprons, and sanitation station materials (soap, paper towels, hand and shoe sanitizers).Monitor and record freezer and cooler temperatures to ensure proper environmental control for ingredients and finished products.Perform and monitor product parameters such as pasta hydration and drained weight, ensuring compliance with specifications.Collect finished product samples for retain testing and scheduled microbiological analysis.Communicate and coordinate with external service technicians during calibration and maintenance of scales, metal detectors, and X-ray equipment.Verify ingredient usage, lot numbers, and quantities to ensure accuracy and traceability in production batches.Review labels and packaging materials prior to production to ensure alignment with product specifications.Confirm correct ingredients, lot numbers, and quantities are used throughout production processes.Ensure specification sheets and visual/photo standards are clearly posted and available at production lines prior to startup.Communicate shift-to-shift information regarding quality issues, deviations, or operational concerns.Participate in food safety and operational programs, including Allergen Control, Pest Management, and Safety Committee initiatives.Provide support to other departments and roles as needed to ensure smooth production operations.Perform additional duties as assigned.High School diploma or equivalent.English, Bilingual preferred.1-2 years of Production Line Experience within the food industry a plus.Product knowledge: Acquire and maintain full knowledge of USDA and FDA codes, rules, and regulations.Proficiency in follow-up; ability to meet deadlines.Team player, positive can-do attitude.Ability to assess situations and make independent decisions to achieve success.Ability to bend, sit and stand.Ability to perform multiple complex tasks concurrently.Ability to communicate both verbally and in writing.Ability to see and walk for inspections of plant sites.Ability to hear.Ability to lift at least 30 lbs.