Raw Material Specialist

Job Overview

Purpose of the Position

Ensures the safety and quality of incoming raw materials, as well as consistency with all specifications provided by Corporate QA. Analyzes and trends raw material data, taking a proactive approach to surface opportunities to the management team.

Essential Position Responsibilities - This is a Salary Non-Exempt position. 

Coordinates and leads the raw material testing program including material sampling, testing, and data entry into JDE/ IQS. May be required to pull samples of raw materials (dry & liquid ingredients, & meats). Executes quarterly raw material screening as outlined by Corporate Quality. Communicates and escalates raw material issues & non conformances to the site QA Manager, corporate Food Safety Director, and corporate Raw Material Technical Manager. Manages the incoming water quality testing program. Participates in supplier audits as required. Manages  and maintains the sample retain program assigned location. Performs data review and entry into IQS, and communicates trends and insights to the Quality Manager. 

Conducts supplier quality trend analysis to assess Supplier consistency to specification, including COA to plant data analysis. Leads supplier issue identification and resolution in collaboration with Purchasing. Responsible for the New Ingredient Qualification, Positive Release and Probationary Supplier process. Responsible for the raw material hold/release process. 

Performs raw material testing using various lab equipment, operates & maintains cleanliness of lab equipment and surrounding work area. Takes steps to ensure the calibration for all equipment used for raw material testing is up to date. Responsible for the laboratory equipment calibration except the daily calibrations conducted by the Lab Tech. 

Participates as a member of the Team. Participates in the ongoing development, communication and implementation of team concepts, programs and policies; coordinates work to ensure best practices with all team members. Attends appropriate team meetings. As a member of the Team, fosters strong cohesiveness regarding all  major issues; e.g., direction, annual plan, budget, policy changes, etc. Accepts responsibility to quickly identify any  areas that lack cohesiveness, bringing them to the attention of the team leader and working with the team in a supportive manner to resolve issues and actively look for ways, and reinforce actions needed, to achieve synergy  possible within the larger organization. 

Simmons Operating systems principles and objectives: Is familiar with Simmons’ established operating systems (e.g. quality, security, office environment, company policies, LEAN); understands the responsibility to maintain familiarity with the systems and this position’s role in support of these systems - including a consideration of the impact of individual actions on the systems and the responsibility to communicate concerns and improvement ideas. 

Performs other duties as necessary in support of business objectives: This position description is intended to guide the activities of the person in this position and is not intended to limit the thinking and creativity of the person as to the work of this function nor is it intended that this describe all the work that may be required of the person in this  position. 

Physical Activities: Enters and locates information on a computer. Visually verifies information, often in small print. Communicates with Customers, Vendors, or Employees via telephone, in person, and/or electronic mail. May present information to small or large groups. Must be able to work in various temperatures. Move about in a manufacturing environment and surrounding property. May travel via car or plane to various work locations. Must be able to lift up to  50 lbs.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Ear Plugs, Hair Net. 

Travel: Occasionally for training purposes. 

Technical Experience: Minimum 3 years Quality experience in food processing. Strong chemical and microbiological methodology/analytical skills. Computer skills required; functional knowledge of Microsoft Word, Excel, Access, PowerPoint, and Outlook required. Experienced within a manufacturing/process environment with knowledge of HACCP and Good Manufacturing Practices. 

Industry Experience: Food and beverage operations experience including thermal processing and knowledge of  SPC.  

Minimum Education: High School diploma or equivalent. 

Preferred Education: Bachelor’s Degree in Food Science, Biology, Microbiology or Chemistry. 

We value military experience and welcome veterans to join our team.

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