Lead Technician, Quality Assurance

At Saputo, we bring good to the table by making high-quality products, investing in our people, and supporting communities around the world . As a top 10 global dairy processor, we value contributions that matter and strive to foster an inclusive, growth-driven work environment. Ready to bring your best?

How you will make contributions that matter...

The QA Lead Technician directly supervises QA Lab Technicians in the execution of product testing in order to ensure the highest level of food quality and food safety.

The QA Lead Technician is directly accountable for the specific duties detailed below, in addition to any other duties as defined by the QA Manager.

• Direct and prioritize work for QA Lab Technicians to ensure maximum productivity and accuracy of data
• Develop and coach QA Lab Technicians on lab protocols, regulatory requirements and continuous improvement methodologies
• Conduct analytical and organoleptic testing of raw ingredients, in-process samples and finished goods
• Advise and confer with departmental supervisors in regards to non-conforming product
• Conduct root cause analyses for non-conformances to standards
• Place non-conforming products on hold and make assessments for disposition
• Create work instructions and procedures for laboratory functions
• Utilize continuous improvement methodologies (Lean/TPS/Six Sigma) to drive performance
• Understand and enforce compliance to all regulatory, corporate and plant policies and procedures
• Support QA team during internal and external audits
• Review records, reports and databases for discrepancies

Key Attributes

The QA Lead Technician:

• Must be a champion for product quality and food safety
• Must possess the ability and desire to build, lead and mentor a team
• Must be able to communicate in a professional and effective manner with all levels of the organization
• Must be able to prioritize work tasks based on changing organizational and operational needs
• Must be able to lead change initiatives
• Must be able to recognize opportunities for continuous improvement and propose solutions
• Must be able to manage conflict
• Must be able to apply critical thinking skills and analyze data
• Must be detail oriented in regards to data accuracy and documentation
• Must be able to collect and organize information in order to advise managers on quality issues
• Must possess a strong work ethic and have the ability to self –direct

You Are Best Suited For The Role If You Have The Following Experience, Skills, and Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED, required. 
• Associates’ degree in a science based area of study preferred, or (4)-years of demonstrated work experience with increasing responsibility.
• Bachelor’s degree may be considered in lieu of work experience.
• Previous experience with quality specifications, process control monitoring and documentation
• Advanced quality/food safety training and/or certifications
• Familiarity with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs) or Good Laboratory Practices (GLPs)
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite: word, excel, access and power point
• Proficient in database applications for logistics, enterprise management,  maintenance and quality data systems

We Support and Care For Our Employees By Providing Them With…

• Development opportunities that enhance their career fulfillment
• Meaningful compensation & benefits that help them care for their families.
• Opportunities to contribute to your community and enhance the lives of others through Saputo products.

Physical Demands

The QA Lead Technician must be able to work in a fast paced industrial manufacturing environment. Environmental conditions and physical requirements include, but are not limited to:

• Loud noise, changing temperatures, and wet floors
• Standing, walking, bending, stooping, climbing stairs/ladders around manufacturing equipment for 12+ hours
• Physically lifting up to 25 lbs. intermittently throughout 12 hour shift
• Pushing carts, hand trucks or wheeled totes with up to 200 lbs. of load
• Working with chemicals, strong caustics and acids

Hourly Rate: $28.83

In the USA, Saputo ranks among the top three cheese producers and is one of the top producers of extended shelf-life and cultured dairy products, with a portfolio of well-loved brands such as Stella, Frigo Cheese, Montchevre, Stella, and Treasure Cave. We also boast a strong foodservice presence, partnering with reputable chain restaurants and broadline distributors.

Whether your expertise lies in manufacturing, operations, supply chain, sales, quality assurance, or in any other function, your role is integral to our success. You will make contributions that matter, all while working alongside colleagues who genuinely care about your success and who will roll up their sleeves to help.

Saputo Cheese USA Inc. endeavors to make CareersUSA.Saputo.com accessible to all users. If you would like to contact us regarding the accessibility of our website or need assistance completing the application process, please contact Human Resources at 214-863-2300 or email us.recruitingsupport@saputo.com. This contact information is for accommodation requests only and cannot be used to inquire about the status of applications.

Saputo Cheese USA Inc. and Saputo Dairy Foods USA, LLC are equal opportunity employers. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you'd like more information on your EEO rights under law, please visit www.EEOC.gov.

To review the Saputo Cheese USA Inc. and Saputo Dairy Foods USA LLC Privacy Notice for California applicants, please visit our Corporate website associated section by clicking here (English) or here (Spanish).