QA Associate - Atlantic, IA

Job Summary: We are seeking a versatile Quality Control Associate (Swing Person) to support our lab and syrup room operations. This role involves performing microbiological testing, conducting sensory evaluations, and aiding batchers in the syrup room and lab technicians during normal operations. Additionally, the Quality Control Associate will be responsible for covering for lab technicians or syrup batchers in their absence.

Key Responsibilities:

• Conduct microbiological testing to ensure product safety and quality.
• Perform sensory evaluations to product attributes and consistency.
• Support batchers in the syrup room by monitoring processes and ensuring quality standards are met.
• Assist lab technicians with testing and analysis during regular operations.
• Performs qualitative and quantitative analysis of incoming, in process and finished materials using standardized procedures. These checks may include, but are not limited to visual, pH, Titratable Acidity, Brix, Organoleptic, Carbon Dioxide, Density, Total Dissolved Solids, Microbiological Sampling, and testing, etc.
• Provide coverage for lab technicians or syrup batchers during absences, ensuring continuity of operations.
• Perform standardized quality samplings and audits during production; organize collected data into electronic logbooks, databases, and report variances and non-conformities to plant management.
• Document test results, inspections, and evaluations accurately.
• Coordinate the preparation of syrup batches with the needs of the production lines.
• Understand mixing, piping and valve systems.
• Clean and sanitize tanks, pumps, hoses, and equipment.
• Collaborate with team members to identify and implement quality improvements.
• Participate in training sessions to enhance quality control skills and knowledge.
• Maintain cleanliness and organization in the lab and syrup room.

Qualifications:

• High School Diploma or GED preferred.
• Minimum of one year of work experience required.
• Prior experience in production and/or manufacturing or as a lab technician preferred.
• Demonstrated ability to participate in a positive and engaged team atmosphere.
• Strong analytical skills with attention to detail and accuracy.
• Familiarity with lab safety and handling of hazardous materials. Must be able to read, write, and speak English to properly understand and relay important safety and quality information.
• Capable of working well with others and maintaining excellent interdepartmental relationships.
• Readily accepts instruction from management and supervisors and executes effectively.
• Must be able to take initiative and work independently at times.
• Needs to be reliable and open to a flexible schedule.
• Strong computer comprehension capabilities, including Word, Excel, and various quality system applications.
• Prior experience using a forklift and order picker preferred.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Good computer and MS Office experience are required.
• Excellent team-player; Strong ability to effectively interact with multiple departments.
• Highly-motivated self-starter, with the ability to work with minimal oversight.
• Flexible with the ability to adapt to varying situations.
• Knowledge of microbiological testing and sensory evaluation methods.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to follow procedures accurately.
• Excellent communication and teamwork skills.

Skills:

• Proficient in using laboratory equipment and quality control tools.
• Knowledge of Syrup batching is a plus.
• Working knowledge on Industrial Microbiology.
• Familiarity with quality standards and regulations.
• Strong problem-solving abilities and analytical skills.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities.

Working Conditions:

• While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk and hear. This position will spend their time on the production floor. As a result, they should expect a fast-paced production environment with loud noises resulting and will frequently lift and/or move items up to 50 pounds. (Moving equipment and tools will be provided to reduce strains and injury.)
• This role is expected to be able to:
• Lift 50 pounds up to shoulder height occasionally.
• Lift up to 30 pounds above the head occasionally.
• Reach, push, and pull objects occasionally using up to 20 pounds of force.
• Climb stairs frequently in a wet environment.
• Carry up to 20 pounds up six stairs occasionally.
• Occasionally enter/exit the cab of a forklift.
• The role involves constant standing/walking. Pulling, twisting, grasping, reaching, bending, kneeling, sitting, stooping, crouching, crawling, climbing, and keyboarding will be required.
• The typical work days are Monday-Friday, with varied hours based on production schedule needs. Some evening and weekend work may be required.
• This role is considered a safety sensitive position.

Note: No posting can contain a fully comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required in this role. Atlantic Coca-Cola Bottling Company offers a dynamic, ever-changing environment requiring flexibility and a willing, team-based attitude. Some duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time, with or without notice.

To ensure the safety of our employees, our customers, and our products, Atlantic Coca-Cola Bottling Company offers a drug-free workplace. Employees are subject to pre-employment/post-offer drug and random drug testing.

EOE