Quality Assurance Analyst

SUMMARY

Conducts research and analysis concerning chemistry and microbiology of foods to develop and improve foods, beverages, and cosmetics by performing the following duties.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include the following. Other duties may be assigned.

• Studies effects of various methods of processing, preservation, and packaging on composition and properties of foods such as color, texture, aroma, taste, shelf life, and nutritive content.
• Performs quality control tests in food processing, products and cosmetics.
• Analyzes raw materials and finished products, using standard laboratory instruments such as GC, ICP, FTIR and other instruments.
• Records test data, applying statistical quality control procedures.
• Evaluates data and writes reports to validate or indicate deviations from existing standards.
• Maintain laboratory records, samples and equipment.
• Recommends modifications of existing quality or production standards to achieve optimum quality within limits of equipment capability.
• Sets up and performs destructive and nondestructive test on materials, or products to measure performance, and material characteristics.
• Analyzes raw materials, intermediate and finished products following Sunrider's specifications and performs required analysis such as: organoleptic evaluation, pH, moisture, do other test such as titration, disintegration and others.
• Analyzes cosmetic bulk materials and provides adjustments of batches when necessary.
• Approves/rejects raw materials, intermediate and finished products based upon Sunrider's specifications.
• Logs on incoming samples of raw materials, in-process materials and finished products in log book and e-files.
• Prepares test samples for microbiological analyses utilizing aseptic techniques.
• Prepares and sterilizes standard microbiological cultural media.
• Performs serial dilutions and enumerate targeted microorganisms following standard operating procedures.
• Skillfully uses all standard microbiological techniques (plating, streaking, pouring, diluting, autoclaving, etc.).
• Counts, calculates and reports test results.
• Detects and confirms pathogenic microorganisms that may cause foodborne illness using selective media agar.
• Generates Pass/Fail decisions for analyzed products according to the pre-established specification limits.
• Accurately documents and maintains necessary paper and electronic data records.
• Maintains and updates the Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) on Microbiological methods.
• Operates general laboratory equipment such as an autoclave, pipet machine, incubator, etc.
• Maintains proper labeling, handling, storage and disposal of microbiological waste.
• Manages time and tasks efficiently.

QUALIFICATIONS

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE

Bachelor's degree (B. A.) in a scientific discipline from four-year college or university; and two to five years related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience.

LANGUAGE SKILLS

Ability to read, analyze, and interpret professional journals, technical procedures, or governmental regulations. Ability to write reports, business correspondence, and procedure manuals. Ability to effectively present information and respond to questions from departmental manager/supervisor or other employees.

MATHEMATICAL SKILLS

Ability to apply advanced mathematical concepts such as exponents, logarithms, quadratic equations, and permutations. Ability to apply mathematical operations to such tasks as frequency distribution, determination of test reliability and validity, analysis of variance, correlation techniques, sampling theory, and factor analysis.

COMPUTER SKILLS

To perform this job successfully, an individual should have knowledge of Database software; Spreadsheet software and Word Processing software.

REASONING ABILITY

Ability to define problems, collect data, establish facts, and draw valid conclusions. Ability to interpret an extensive variety of technical instructions in mathematical or diagram from and deal with several abstract and concrete variable.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to sit; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; and reach with hands and arms. The employee is occasionally required to stand, walk, talk or hear, and taste or smell. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 10 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently exposed to fumes or airborne particles (herbal powders). The employee is occasionally exposed to toxic or caustic chemicals (chemicals used to perform wet chemistry analysis, microbiological testing) and microorganisms (if PPE and procedures are not followed properly). The noise level in the work environment is usually quiet.

Sunrider Manufacturing provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training