Job Overview
The specialist, quality assurance (“QA”), is responsible for the establishment and maintenance of product quality against the company standards. This position will evaluate new products and vendors as well as monitor existing vendors and products under the direction of the analyst, QA.
Primary Responsibilities
· Evaluate existing store brand products in the assigned categories for quality, condition and adherence to product specifications.
· Coordinate and supervise the assigned category product sensory analysis process, including obtaining samples, scheduling, leading the evaluation panel, as well as summarizing and reporting results.
· Assist in researching and developing information for product specifications.
· Support the establishment of protocol, coordination, analysis and reporting of results from outside laboratory testing programs.
· Conduct supplier facility assessments to assist in the determination of eligibility as a store brand supplier; support initiatives to partner with high quality vendors.
· Support the resolution of customer complaints by corresponding with Topco or other related vendors for appropriate action plans; communicate and coordinate with internal departments as needed.
· Support the review of labels and packaging of store brands to help ensure quality, proper documentation of specifications and compliance with applicable law.
· Maintain kitchen and laboratory testing equipment.
· Perform other job-related duties as assigned.
Critical Competencies and Skills
People / Merchant and Brand / Business and Results
· Builds Trusting & Loyal Relationships
· Contributes to Team Success
· Explains & Provides Feedback to Others
· Communicates with Impact & Candor
· Respects Individual Differences / · Earns Customer Loyalty
· Adapts to Change
· Manages Work / · Displays Business & Functional Acumen
· Clarifies & Achieves Results
Minimum Qualifications
· Bachelor’s degree in food science, biology, chemistry or other related science field and two (2) years experience in food safety and/or quality role; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
· Demonstrated strong PC skills including proficiency in Microsoft Office applications.
· Compliance with all company policies and procedures.
· Ability to read, write and speak English proficiently.
· Authorization to work in the United States or the ability to obtain the same.
· Successful completion of pre-employment drug testing and background check.
Preferred Qualifications
· Strong communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to function successfully both within the QA group and with internal departments.
· Ability to manage time effectively to meet established timelines.
· Experience with products and production methods relating to assigned product categories.
· Ability to be resourceful, handle multiple tasks effectively and with precise detail.
· Ability to take a leadership role on specific projects with minimal supervision.
· Working knowledge of packaging and labeling regulations.
· Experience or certification with SQF disciplines.
Environment and Physical Demands
Physical Requirements
Never (N) 0%
Occasionally (O) 1-33%
Frequently (F) 34-66%
Continuously (C) 67-100%
Task / Frequency / Additional Details (as necessary)1. Standing / F / Surface Type(s): Carpet, tile, concrete
2. Walking / F / Surface Type(s): Carpet, tile, concrete
3. Sitting / F
4. Carrying / F / Up to 50 Lbs.
5. Pushing / F / Up to 50 Lbs.
6. Lifting / F / Up to 50 Lbs.
7. Pulling / F / Up to 50 Lbs.
8. Climbing / O / Height: 3 ft
9. Balancing / O
10. Stooping / O
11. Kneeling / O
12. Crouching / O
13. Handling / C
14. Fingering / F
15. Feeling / C
16. Crawling / N
17. Reaching / F / Level: Waist/overhead, etc
18. Talking / C
19. Seeing / C
20. Hearing / C
21. Smelling / C
22. Repetitive movement / C / Of both hands
Job location
Headquarters
Working Conditions
X / Inside / Outside / Cold / Heat / Wet/HumidSafety Risk Factors
Never (N) 0%
Occasionally (O) 1-33%
Frequently (F) 34-66%
Continuously (C) 67-100%
Risk Factor / Frequency1. Loud Noise / O
2. Twisting of back and Neck / O
3. Slippery floor surface / O
4. Cluttered floor surface / F
5. Hazardous Equipment / O
6. Contact with sharp objects / O
7. Contact with Skin Irritants / O
8. Toxic Exposure (see MSDS) / N
9. Nuisance dust, fumes, sprays / O
10. Hazardous cleaning solutions / N
Schedules
X / Varied / Day / Evenings / Weekends / HolidaysMachines, Tools, Equipment, etc
Personal computer, telephone, copy machine, facsimile machine, general office supplies and equipment, electronic balance, pH meter, refractometer, refrigerator, freezer, deli slicer, can opener, oven, stove top, microwave oven, various small kitchen appliances and utensils
Modified 7.25.14 Specialist, Quality Assurance Page 1 of 4