Quality Assurance Specialist- 1st Shift

About Klosterman Baking Company:
We provide quality products to all of our customers across the Midwest via Fresh Distribution, and Nationwide via Frozen Distribution. From our fresh hamburger buns to our hardy sliced bread varieties, our commitment to baking with natural ingredients and providing a fresh great taste never ends. Here at Klosterman we understand the importance of family, that’s why we pride ourselves on having a hometown feel within all our locations.
SUMMARY:
Q.A. Specialists will observe and monitor raw materials, in-process products and finished products to comply with all laws, policies, and standards governing food safety and product quality. Q.A. Specialists are obligated to report all food safety issues that may occur. This is a salaried role and all QA Specialists are considered to be an extension of the management team.
1. Keep records of quality tests completed.
2. Provide updated testing requirements and procedures as defined by the customer.
3. Prioritize customer specifications and ensure all product meets customer specification requirements.
4. Adhere to all industry quality and safety standards.
5. Assist management team in internal audits, GMP walkthroughs and plant observations.
6. Ability to conduct basic biological and laboratory testing of finished product.
7. Proper performance of quality checks associated with bakery products.
Some typical quality checks include:
- Records of scaling weight.
- Records of finished product measurements.
- Records of product temperature @ various processing steps.
- Records of production QCP’s (Quality Control Point Documentation).
- Records of shelf-life testing.
- Records of pH, moisture, and water activity.
- Records of finished color measurements .
- Records of other quality checks as required by the customer.
8. Logic and Reasoning Ability:

- Able to solve problems relating to quality requirements and testing.
9. Math Ability:

- Able to add subtract, multiply, divide, and estimate.
10. Integrity:

- Honest, respectful of others, calm and patient in the face of adversity.
11. Physical:
- Capable of standing and walking for long periods of time.
12. Environmental:
- Work within a noisy environment.
- Work within a non-climate-controlled workspace where temperatures may vary (typical in manufacturing environments).
13. Dependability:
- Good attendance.
SAFETY:
14. Adhere to OSHA policies and company safety procedures and requirements.
15. Submit documentation for safety hazards to a supervisor when identified.
16. Avoid rushing, awkward positions, and lifting heavy objects alone.
FOOD SAFETY:
17. Understanding of HACCP.
18. Follow all GMPs.
19. Properly follow allergen procedures
20. Monitor product surfaces and work area for any source of cross contamination.
21. Report any foreign material or food safety risk to a supervisor immediately.
22. Lead by example by demonstrating what is expected of the food safety culture of Klosterman Baking Company.
23. Assist in distributing food safety culture surveys to employees.
QUALITY:
24. Complete required checks as defined by the customer.
25. Understand and meet product specifications.
26. Inform production supervisor, general manager and/or quality manager if product is not within specification.
27. Generate and maintain product on hold and follow proper hold procedures.
28. Conduct training with associates regarding food safety, SQF and quality initiatives.
29. Assist quality manager in investigating and resolving customer complaints.
Requirements
PREFFERED QUALIFICATIONS:
Previous Quality inspection and auditing experience preferred
Strong organizational skills required
Must have strong communication skills (verbal and written)
Must be proficient in Microsoft Office Suite - including Outlook, Teams, Excel, Sharepoint, Word, etc
Must have Understanding of HACCP principles
3 years of Previous QA experience in food manufacturing preferred
High School diploma or GED required
Required to purchase slip-resistant shoes prior to start date
Flexible work days
This position will report directly to the Quality Manager @ the facility.
Benefits
Company Benefits:
Medical and Vision Insurance
Dental Insurance( After one year)
401k
Life Insurance and Long Term Disability (Company Paid!)
Upbeat and positive work environment
Advancement Opportunities