2nd Shift- Quality Technician- Shipping & Receiving Docks

Job Details: Level: Experienced, Job Location: EAST CHICAGO - East Chicago, IN, Salary Range: $21.00 - $21.00Hourly, Job Category: Manufacturing, Reports to: FSQA Manager

FLSA Status: Non - Exempt

JOB SUMMARY

The Quality Assurance Technician is responsible for monitoring food safety and quality during receiving and shipping operations. This role ensures compliance with company standards, regulatory requirements, and customer specifications. In addition, the Quality Assurance Technician will serve as a backup for the COA Technician, supporting the management and verification of Certificates of Analysis.

Key Responsibilities

The following are essential job duties. Additional responsibilities may be assigned based on business needs.
Regular, reliable, and punctual attendance is required to effectively perform the responsibilities of this role.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES 

Conduct inspections of raw materials and ingredients to ensure compliance with approved product specifications.

Inspect product returns from customers to verify that food safety and quality have not been compromised.

Perform label reconciliation activities for all incoming ingredients and raw materials.

Verify packaging against approved graphics.

Confirm that all ingredients, raw materials, and packaging are sourced from approved suppliers.

Inspect transportation for compliance with food safety requirements, including cleanliness, temperature, allergens, and trailer conditions.

Verify lot code assignments and labeling accuracy for incoming goods.

Notify QA Lead/Management and warehouse management of deviations and assist with corrective actions.

Ensure accuracy and availability of all paperwork (purchase orders, BOLs, COAs, product specifications, packaging graphics).

Place products on hold when necessary.

Verify outbound shipments for correct product, packaging condition, and labeling.

Calibrate handheld and laser thermometers.

Conduct GMP checks in warehouse areas and take corrective actions as needed.

Monitor storage area temperatures.

Support other QA department tasks as assigned.

ADDITIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES (COA TECHNICIAN BACKUP)

Manage inbound and outbound COAs.

Review inbound schedules daily and request missing COAs.

Verify supplier COAs against approved specifications and file appropriately.

Generate customer COAs, accounting for specific customer requirements.

Submit Costco COAs for Kirkland Organic Broccoli via Azzule.

Provide COAs and supporting information to Summit Cold Storage for product receipt.

Report product damages and discrepancies in receiving paperwork to vendors.

Coordinate product returns to suppliers, including Return Authorization Materials (RMAs).

Support QA Technicians at docks with product specifications, COAs, and lot code breakdowns.

Assist QA Manager and Regulatory Affairs Supervisor with general inquiries.

Administer the product hold program as required.

Perform lot maintenance, including expiration date updates.

SKILLS & QUALIFICATIONS

Previous experience as a Quality Technician in a USDA-regulated facility preferred.

Availability to work flexible hours, including second shift.

Strong multitasking and organizational skills.

Ability to perform effectively in a fast-paced environment.

Team-oriented and detail-focused.

Bilingual in English and Spanish preferred.

Prior QA/QC experience strongly preferred.

Experience in label reconciliation and product quality inspections.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

Ability to lift up to 50 pounds and climb as needed.

Availability to work flexible hours, including second shift.

Ability to stand, bend, and climb stairs for extended periods (10–12 hours per day).

Ability to work in refrigerated environments (32–36°F).

WHY JOIN US?

Play a key role in the launch of a next-generation facility 

Work with a collaborative and innovation-driven team 

Help deliver high-quality, safe, and delicious food products to consumers 

Contribute to the future of food manufacturing through automation and sustainability

Qualifications: