Thermal Processing Technician

Job Overview

Monitors procedures to ensure food safety and quality standards are being achieved.

Essential Position Responsibilities This is a Salary Exempt position.

Audits production records. Reviews all relevant thermal processing documents within 24 hours. Examines  production records daily to verify that CCPs and Critical Quality Points are in compliance with State and Federal rules  and regulations in regards to food safety. Collects and inspects Shop Floor Documents (SFDs) daily for adherence to  SOPs and distributes copies to the accounting department. 

Audits production processes. Verifies that established processes are working properly within established limits set  forth by Simmons and State/Federal government agencies. Evaluates and examines processes, equipment, and  materials to ensure conformance. Ensures operations are carried in compliance with established process controls.  

Monitors and maintains the Master Calibration Schedule which includes semi-annual calibration of retort’s MIG thermometers, and in-plant equipment calibrations to ensure all equipment is calibrated on time to a satisfactory level. Maintains pouch sort schedule.  

Conducts a variety of audits. Audits the facility’s weekly sanitation log to ensure compliance. Conducts the glass/brittle plastic audits as well as the weekly bio-luminescence audit of the production area. Audits the retort cooling water quality analysis. Assists with the wastewater program. 

Responsible for documenting various reports. Enters results of audits, CCPs online checks, and any items related to food safety into the IQS system. Evaluates product documentation for compliance with company policies and  procedures. Performs organoleptic evaluations for product on hold as needed.  

Collaborates with different functional areas of operations. Works together with all levels of management, customers, auditors, FDA personnel as well as coworkers to ensure compliance. Communicates and informs members of cross-functional teams the results of audits and assists in the implementation of corrective action. Works with the production and sanitation department to develop continuous improvement processes. 

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. 

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): As required by visiting facility. 

Travel: Occasionally for training purposes.  

Technical Experience: 0-1 years knowledge of Thermal Processing and auditing as well as working knowledge of current laboratory procedures and HACCP principles. Knowledge of GMPs is preferred. Proficiency in Microsoft office suite. 

Industry Experience: Pet food or food processing organization. 

Minimum Education: Related work experience may be considered in leu of formal education.  

Preferred Education:  Bachelor’s Degree in Science or Engineering or related field. Better Process Control School.  

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

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