Purpose:
The Quality Assurance (QA) Technician plays a critical role in supporting food safety and product quality across all stages of seafood production. Working closely with the QA Manager and QA team, this position ensures compliance with regulatory requirements, internal standards, and customer expectations. The QA Technician actively participates in monitoring programs, audit readiness, and continuous improvement efforts to uphold Pier Fish Company, Inc.’s commitment to quality, safety, and operational excellence.
Responsibilities:
- Work alongside the QA Manager to ensure food safety and quality standards are maintained throughout production
- Participate in internal and external food safety and quality audits
- Review analytical test results to verify product quality and determine acceptability of raw materials and finished goods
- Compile and maintain data for quality reports and vendor rejections
- Order and maintain inventory of QA supplies
- Verify and monitor critical data, including foreign object detection outcomes, HACCP violations, and GMP violations
- Maintain and schedule calibration of equipment and standards to ensure accuracy and compliance
- Monitor shelf life of raw materials and finished products
- Monitor and manage product holds, ensuring proper documentation and disposition
- Oversee allergen program compliance, including updating allergen listings and related documentation
- Monitor ATP testing and monthly environmental swab results; maintain trend logs
- Assist in developing procedures and training documents related to processing and food safety programs
- Monitor sanitation practices throughout the facility to ensure compliance with FDA Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs)
- Identify deficiencies, notify appropriate personnel, and document corrective actions in daily sanitation reports
- Maintain a Notice of Unusual Occurrences (NUOCA) log related to HACCP deviations
- Report NUOCA findings quarterly to the HACCP team for review and resolution
Skills & Competencies:
- Strong ability to prioritize tasks and meet critical deadlines in a fast-paced environment
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel), including charts, graphs, and basic formulas
- Ability to analyze data and interpret trend reports
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills
- Strong attention to detail with an analytical and problem-solving mindset
- Sound judgment and ability to make decisions based on facts, regulations, and industry standards
- Ability to manage multiple tasks through completion with minimal supervision
- Flexible and adaptable to changing priorities, schedules, and operational needs
- Reliable attendance and punctuality
- Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to work collaboratively across departments
Required Qualifications:
- Related work experience in food safety, quality assurance, or a similar role within a manufacturing environment
- Some formal education related to food science, quality assurance, or a related field preferred
- HACCP certification required; experience managing or supporting a HACCP plan
- Experience with SQF or similar food safety certification programs preferred
- Understanding of GMPs, HACCP Critical Control Points (CCPs), and quality systems
Work Environment:
This position operates in a seafood processing plant environment and may involve exposure to:
- Moderate to high noise levels
- Food-grade dust and odors
- Moving and vibrating machinery
- Heavy equipment and powered industrial trucks
- Cold and wet conditions
- Elevated work areas and active production traffic
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $18.00 - $25.00 per hour
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Employee discount
- Health insurance
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
Experience:
- quality assurance: 1 year (Preferred)
Work Location: In person
