Quality Assurance Specialist

We are looking for QA Specialist with an experience in Food manufacturing operations for Temp to Full time position.

Initially the contract will be for 3-4 months with posibility of becoming FT with full benefits.

THE COMPANY:

NuStef Baking is a leading provider of the highest quality, authentic, artisan baked goods that are essential elements of our consumers’ year-round entertaining and anytime snacking occasions. Our core brands are Reko and Kii Naturals.

Reko pizzelles, are Italian-style waffle cookies, baked in small batches on cast iron griddles and carefully hand-packed. For almost 40 years, we have perfected a multi-generational authentic recipe from Italy's Abruzzo region. Reko pizzelles are naturally flavored and baked in a peanut-free facility, resulting in crisp, delicate flavors that are addictively delicious!

Kii Naturals artisan crisps, combine authentic fresh ingredients, hand-crafted in small batches.Double-baked for a satisfying crunch, each artisan crisp holds a delightful burst of flavorful fruit, nuts or seeds. Kii Naturals artisan crisps have no preservatives, GMOs or trans fats, and are perfect for charcuterie boards, snacks, and sharing with friends.

JOB SUMMARY

Reporting directly to the QA MANAGER this position is responsible for ensuring the facilitation of effective programs, including the Quality Assurance and Food Safety program as well, systems and communications to ensure the safety, legality, and quality of products at NuStef. The incumbent plays a critical role in creating and maintaining a service-oriented approach built on the foundations of Food Safety as well works with the Production team to address customer specifications, regulatory issues and delivers against corporate food safety and quality management directives.

** May be required to support our sister company during vacation leave or on specific projects.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Perform incoming inspection and sampling of incoming raw materials and packaging materials.
• Request COA’s, review for compliance and maintain approved supplier documentation.
• Issue paperwork to production, collect and review completed documents.
• Maintain production documentation and retained samples.
• Ensure quality assurance standards and good manufacturing practices are being followed throughout the plant.
• Regular verification that various QA processes such as allergen changeovers, FIFO, metal detector checks, scale and thermometer calibrations are being followed properly.
• Perform and maintain process control standards, sample collection and CCP validation as outlined in the HACCP and BRC requirements.
• Conduct a comprehensive review, document, and take appropriate corrective action in each instance when a product fails to meet the required specifications - ingredients, packaging materials and finished products.
• Participate in scheduled GMP, sanitation and safety audits throughout the production departments and identify deficiencies and corrective actions.
• Support the Kosher, Organic and Non-GMO certification programs.
• Lead and participate in scheduled internal audits, supporting the food safety and health and safety programs.
• Supports the QA Manager with all external audits. Maintain reporting on all quality data.
• Ensure all documentation, calibration and verification tasks are completed.
• Manage janitorial and production equipment sanitation programs and staff.
• Assist the QA Manager in complaints investigation, customer requests and product development/innovation initiatives.
• Prepare and delivers Food Safety and Regulatory requirements training for all staff.
• Responsible for environmental monitoring program and follow-up on any non-compliance issues and for conducting trend analyses.
• Participate in plant trials and other related duties and responsibilities assigned.
• Additional duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• 5+ years’ experience in a QA position, preferably for a food manufacturer.
• College/vocational or technical training or completion of university.
• Experience in food processing or food manufacturing facilities.
• Knowledge of Food Safety (HACCP) programs, GMP programs and Quality Systems.
• Experience with SQF/BRC a strong asset.
• Experience with ERP systems.
• Experience with Genesis or other nutrition software.
• Safety and quality conscious.
• Demonstrated ability to handle multiple priorities.
• Strong attention to detail.
• Good computer Word, Outlook, and Excel skills.
• Ability to work independently as well as in a team environment.
• Positive and professional approach with willingness to learn.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Standing and/or walking for prolonged periods of time.
• Sitting to complete communications and documentation as required.
• Extended or flexible hours may be required from time to time.