SunOpta Overview:
SunOpta (Nasdaq: STKL) (TSX: SOY) is a U.S.-based, global pioneer fueling the future of sustainable, plant-based food and beverages. Founded nearly 50 years ago, SunOpta manufactures organic and specialty products sold through retail and foodservice channels. SunOpta operates as a manufacturer for leading natural and private label brands, and also proudly produces its own brands, including SOWN®, Dream® and West LifeTM.

Job Summary:
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 Functions of the Job:

• 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

• 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

• Cooperates with other shifts and management team for facility housekeeping endeavors.

Communication

• Ensure teamwork with management and operators occurs during each scheduled shift.

Teamwork and Training

• Promote and contribute to the development of teamwork among production team members.

Personal Development

• Continuous learning of the Aseptic batching, sterilization and filling processes.

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.

Knowledge and Skills:

• Confident with independent work.
• Able to evaluate a situation and make a good decision or escalate appropriately.
• Good past work history.
• Good attendance.
• Able to stand for long periods of time.
• Able to do repetitive work.
• Able to lift a minimum of 50 pounds and at times more.

Minimum Qualifications:

• High school diploma or equivalent.

Preferred Qualifications:

• 2+ years related experience in Food Science/Food Technology, or a food or beverage production facility.

Additional Considerations:

• Travel: Some travel may be required to various locations for meetings and other job-related functions.
• Location: This position will be located at our new SunOpta Plant in Midlothian, TX.
• Shift: This will be a 2-2-3 Day Shift, 6 am - 6:30 pm on a 2-2-3 pattern.

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

EOE M/W/VET/DISABLED