Department
Quality Assurance / Food Safety
Reports To
FSQR Supervisor
Location: Skokie Il
Position Summary
The Food Safety & Quality Assurance (FSQA) Technician is responsible for monitoring, verifying, and documenting food safety and quality programs to ensure compliance with company standards, customer requirements, and regulatory guidelines. This role supports production operations by conducting inspections, collecting samples, maintaining records, and assisting with corrective actions to ensure the consistent production of safe, high-quality food products.
Key Responsibilities
- Conduct routine inspections of production areas, equipment, and facilities to verify compliance with food safety and quality standards.
- Perform laboratory analysis and documentation of in process, and finished products.
- Monitor Critical Control Points (CCPs), Preventive Controls, and prerequisite programs in accordance with HACCP and food safety plan.
- Perform product evaluations, sampling, and testing for quality attributes and food safety requirements.
- Review production records, sanitation logs, and quality documentation for accuracy and completeness.
- Collect environmental, product, and water samples as required for laboratory analysis.
- Verify compliance with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs), sanitation procedures, allergen controls, and food defense programs.
- Identify and report quality or food safety deviations and assist in implementing corrective and preventive actions (CAPAs).
- Maintain accurate records and documentation required for regulatory inspections and third-party audits.
- Support internal audits, customer audits, and regulatory inspections.
- Assist with employee training related to food safety, quality standards, and GMP compliance.
- Work closely with production, sanitation, maintenance, and warehouse teams to address quality concerns and improve processes.
- Participate in investigations involving customer complaints, non-conforming products, or food safety incidents.
- Ensure compliance with company policies and applicable food safety regulations.
Qualifications
Education
- High school diploma or equivalent required.
Experience
- 1–3 years of experience in food manufacturing, quality assurance, food safety, or a related field preferred.
- Experience with HACCP, GMPs, SQF, BRCGS, BPCS, or FDA/USDA regulations is a plus.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
- Understanding of food safety principles, quality systems, and regulatory requirements.
- Knowledge of HACCP, GMPs, sanitation programs, allergen management, and food defense practices.
- Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
- Ability to accurately collect data and maintain documentation.
- Effective verbal and written communication skills.
- Proficiency with electronic applications and electronic recordkeeping systems.
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
Physical Requirements
- Ability to stand and walk for extended periods.
- Ability to lift up to 40 pounds occasionally.
- Ability to work in varying temperature environments, including refrigerated and production areas.
Working Conditions
- Food manufacturing or processing facility environment.
- Exposure to production equipment, noise, and food ingredients.
- May require flexible scheduling, including weekends, holidays, or overtime as needed.
Preferred Certifications
- HACCP Certification
- PCQI (Preventive Controls Qualified Individual) Training
- BPCS
Pay: $24.00 - $26.00 per hour
Benefits:
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
Work Location: In person
