The Laboratory Quality Assurance Specialist ensures the quality of raw materials, packaging, and finished products by performing various laboratory tests, including microbiological, chemical, and sensory analyses. This role involves sample preparation, equipment calibration, data interpretation, and compliance with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) and safety regulations. The specialist will support new product trials, maintain documentation, and train new associates. The job requires physical activity and the ability to work extended hours in a production facility environment.

What You’ll Do for Us

Responsibilities:

• Perform laboratory tests (e.g., microbiological, calibration, chemical, sensory) to ensure raw materials, packaging, and products meet quality standards.
• Prepare and manage samples and sampling plans.
• Process incoming/outgoing equipment, verifying calibration paperwork and shipping instruments.
• Conduct chemical analyses to determine sample composition.
• Evaluate physical properties of samples and compliance with standards.
• Prepare standards/standard curves for quantitative analyses.
• Interpret and validate data from various analyses.
• Ensure the quality and integrity of products using the given framework/tools.
• Perform statistical process control on plant equipment and processes.
• Prepare, calibrate, and maintain all quality process equipment.
• Report process data and perform data transactions for instrumentation.
• Support new products/business innovations through trial runs and studies.
• Conduct line checks to ensure product/packaging specifications.
• Operate lab testing instruments and manage related documentation.
• Document operational parameters and adhere to GMP, Safety Policies, and Procedures.
• Train new associates and participate in cross-training within the QA department.
• Manage chemical inventory via FIFO.
• Clean and sanitize equipment/areas as needed.
• Perform additional duties to ensure quality and efficiency.

Qualification

• Quality Assurance: Proficiency in quality cost analysis, inspection, corrective action planning, and quality control techniques.
• Clean In Place (CIP): Knowledge and performance of CIP procedures and related physical tasks.
• Food Safety Regulations: Understanding of food safety regulations for compliance.
• Food/Flavor Chemistry: Basic knowledge of ingredient and flavor compound chemistry.
• Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP): Knowledge and application in a manufacturing environment.
• Lab Safety: Adherence to lab safety regulations and Good Laboratory Practices.
• Laboratory Testing: Proficiency in lab test procedures and analytical standards.
• Lab/Analytical Instrumentation: Operation, modification, maintenance, and repair of laboratory instruments.
• Calibration: Ensuring accuracy and precision of instruments and equipment.
• Sensory Analysis: Application of sensory techniques to evaluate beverage quality.
• Documentation Management: Managing changes to intellectual property, agreements, and documentation.
• Sampling: Knowledge and application of statistical process control techniques.
• Statistical Process Control: Application of statistical tools for process monitoring.
• Technical Specifications: Applying standards and specifications for ingredients, packaging, and production.
• Transportation Regulations: Knowledge of transportation and hazardous materials regulations for compliance.
• Troubleshooting: Identifying and resolving process, system, and mechanical failures.
• Water Filtration/Treatment: Knowledge of water chemistry and filtration standards/equipment.
• Audit Objectivity: Maintaining independence and objectivity during audits.
• Work Conditions: Work is performed in all areas of a production facility with exposure to temperature extremes, noise, moving equipment, wetness, chemicals, fumes, dust, and vibrations.

Requirements

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in a science field preferred.
• Experience: At least 3 years of related experience preferred.
• Communication: Ability to understand, record, and communicate system problems and solutions. Proficient in reading, writing, speaking, and comprehending English.
• Physical Ability: Ability to work extended hours, weekends, and holidays. Move and lift weights up to 50 pounds. Push and pull force of 80lbs. Ability to squat, bend, stand, and walk for extended periods up to 12 hours.

What We Can Do For You

• Experience: A career with a global organization that give you limitless growth opportunities.
• Benefits: A full benefits package that starts on day one of employment.
• Learning & Development: The ability to learn manufacturing processes from a leader in the industry.