QA SUPERVISOR

The Supervisor position supervises Quality Assurance Technicians in food processing facility and assists poultry plant in assuring microbiological quality. The position is at the Tuscaloosa plant on day shift.

Essential Job Functions/Duties:

Performs microbiological and other quality assurance tests. Assures accuracy of testing with quality assurance lab checks and known standard comparisons. Promotes (GMP) good manufacturing practices and HACCP compliance. Assists QA Technician in contacting, performing tests for and reporting of results to outside lab clients and USDA (towards gaining USDA recognized status). Uses SPC method in evaluation of results. Perform tests according to standards, which include but not limit to, pathogen identification, bacterial quantification, sample collection, fat rancidity tests and shelf-life studies. Assists QA Technician and QA Manager in developing microbiological standards and determine causes and correction actions for deviations from standards. Learn policies and procedures, prerequisite programs, SSOP plan, animal health and welfare program, basic export requirements, federal regulations regarding sanitation, HACCP, cooling, chilling, freezing and labeling requirements. Performs all supervisory duties including assisting the QA Manager in recruiting, hiring, educating, motivating, and evaluating QA Technicians. Assists in response to customer complaints regarding microbiological weaknesses. Assists lab manager in developing an efficient lab budge. Serve as back of QA Technicians, when necessary, to complete priority projects. Assist technicians with assorted projects beyond routine tests, including but not limited to research product development, consultation visits to plant facilities, continuing education courses, plans education programs, performing special tests/reports and attending meetings. Other duties as assigned.

Supervision:

Assigns and directs work of QA technicians. Training and development of QA techs; reviews performance and attendance. Receives infrequent instructions and works independently. Refers non-routine situations to QA Manager.

Qualifications:

Bachelor’s degree in Biological Sciences, Food Technology, Poultry Sciences or closely related field or equivalent experience. One to three years of experience in microbiology lab or food quality preferred. Quality assurance experience in poultry processing plant preferred. Demonstrated successful supervisor skills, communication, written and problem-solving skills. Knowledge of computers and software including Word and Excel.

Travel Details:

Periodic travel for meetings and seminars.

Physical Demands:

Must be able to lift pounds, work under pressure, stand and walk for long periods of time. Must be able to make independent judgment in routine tests. Must be able to be exposed to cold/wet/damp environments daily.

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