FSQ Technician I

SunOpta Overview: SunOpta Inc. is a leader in the plant-based foods and beverages, fruit-based foods and beverages, and organic ingredient sourcing industries. SunOpta is focused on sustainability and specializes in the sourcing, processing, and packaging of organic, conventional, non-GMO food products. SunOpta is looking for talented individuals that demonstrate our most valued behaviors: Passion, Dedication, Speed, Entrepreneurship, Customer-Centricity, and Problem-Solver, to help create a brighter, healthier, and sustainable future of food! Summary: (Basic Knowledge – 90 Days) The Quality Assurance (QA) Technician is responsible for performing necessary laboratory testing to ensure ingredients, product and packaging conform to specifications. QA Technician follows written and verbal instructions to determine that quality and efficiency standards are being met. In addition, the QA Technician is responsible for the efficiency, safety and quality of laboratory work and for effective communication relative to shift and plant performance. Essential Duties and Responsibilities: Assure package integrity and product quality by performing laboratory testing and aseptic package evaluation procedures. Perform laboratory testing such as pH, solids/moisture, sodium, etc. Perform destructive aseptic package testing. Assist with investigations related to product spoilage. Collect and communicate lab data with Quality Supervisor and Operations Shift Leaders. Perform incubation activities according to standard operating procedures. Maintain a clean and organized workstation. Troubleshoot and resolve basic to moderate operating difficulties involving area equipment. Responsible for laboratory equipment calibrations at specified intervals. Accurately prepares and maintains all area paperwork. Perform microbiology testing including basic plating in clean room environment, stocking lab, shipping samples, retrieving results, and communicating to management as needed. All other duties, as assigned. Key Accountabilities: Safety Follow all facility human and food safety policies including proper use of PPE. Report all near misses and accidents to the production supervisor. Quality: Adheres to all Quality Assurance System guidelines Follow Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to conduct required testing for products prior to processing, after processing and prior to product release. Must comply and support the HACCP program. Housekeeping Maintains a clean and organized work area. Assists all areas of the plant with general housekeeping. Cooperates with other shifts and the management team in the housekeeping endeavor. Communications As a member of the FSQ team, ensures the effective shift communication and teamwork with the other operators occurs on each scheduled shift. Maintains effective communication with members of the support group. Communicate, Communicate, and Communicate. Teamwork and Training Promotes and contributes to the development of a strong team. Works among co-workers as a team. Personal Development Continuously improve your knowledge of the aseptic filling area. Supervisory Responsibilities: None. Level I Qualifications: Must learn and perform consistently the above essential duties. Level II Qualifications: Must master Level I tasks. Ability to coach and train others in QA technician position. Subject Matter Expert and Primary trainer for microbiology tasks. Communicate and escalate results as appropriate. Minimum Qualifications: High School Diploma or Equivalent. Must have basic math skills. Preferred Qualifications: Working knowledge of business, computer and math. Knowledge and Skills: The candidate must be able to work effectively in a team-based environment, set priorities to meet deadlines, handle multiple tasks, and make decisions under pressure. Must be able to stand (12) hours for long periods of time and lift up to 50 pounds at times.  Must be able to keep a good attendance record Must have accurate and detailed record keeping and legible handwriting Must be able to troubleshoot and resolve moderate to complex issues Understands all procedures with all allergens. Must follow all GMP's and Safety Procedures established by Management Ability to access a situation and make quick and accurate decisions Mechanical and troubleshooting skills. Must be able to work around major allergens. Must be able to climb/walk steps frequently. Additional Considerations: Location: This position will be at the SunOpta Plant in Modesto, CA. Shift: SunOpta currently has an opportunity on Night Shift, 6pm to 6:30 am on a 2-2-3 pattern. Availability: Some flexibility may be needed on occasion. Pay Rate: $26.25/hour -  There is a $2.00/hour shift differential for working the 12-hour night shift on the 2-2-3 pattern. Shift: This will be a Night Shift, 6:00 pm - 6:30 am, on a 2-2-3 pattern. Work Environment: This position will be in a production / manufacturing environment. Physical Demands: This role may require lifting up to 50 pounds and occasionally up to 75 pounds.