QA Technologist

• Perform routine audits throughout the facilities to ensure compliance with food safety & quality programs and policies, GMPs, and sanitation standards. Take action on noncompliance issues andnotify the appropriate supervisor or manager.
• Perform sampling and microbiological testing of equipment, facilities, utensils, air, water, etc. to audit sanitation practices and monitor environmental conditions as related to relevant microorganisms.
• Prepare reports and assist/recommend corrective actions for deficiencies resulting from sanitation audits and environmental monitoring.
• Collect finished product and raw material samples for evaluation and testing in the QA lab.
• Perform microbiological tests, analytical tests, and product evaluations on raw materials and finished products for compliance with specifications and policy.
• Perform sensory evaluation of raw materials and finished product.
• Prepare shipments of samples for microbiological and analytical tests to be performed at an outside laboratory and coordinate shipments to ensure that samples are delivered on time and in good condition.
• Collect production check sheets, reports, and documentation review for accuracy/completion. Prepare and distribute reports on deficiencies and maintain files according to the company record retention program.
• Communicate with other departments within the company on out-of-specification products and materials, foreign material issues, and other noncompliance matters.
• Provide technical assistance and troubleshooting as needed to support the food safety and quality of our products.
• Keep informed on current developments and technology, regulatory issues, customer requirements, and other significant issues related to our business and inform QA management as needed.
• Participate in continuous improvement activities, meetings, committees, seminars, and training events as required.
• Maintain laboratory facilities and equipment following good laboratory practices, calibrating QA equipment as required.
• Manage the inventory of laboratory supplies to meet operational requirements.
• Coordinate shelf-life testing according to schedule facilitate sensory and microbial testing, compile results, and maintain documentation according to departmental policy.
• Maintain retention samples for finished products per customer requirements.

• Bachelor's degree in food science or related science / technical field preferred.
• Minimum of 3 to 5 years overall food industry experience in positions of increasing responsibility in Food Safety, Quality Assurance, or Technical Services.
• Certificate of training and experience in HACCP.
• Knowledge of or experience with the GFSI (Global Food Safety Initiative) including BRC or SQF.
• Experience in and knowledge of food safety and quality issues and the food industry.
• Analytical, organizational, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Ability to develop, maintain, and write food safety and quality programs and procedures.
• Ability to review & interpret data and prepare reports, presentations, and recommendations as needed to upper management.
• Computer skills Microsoft Office, manufacturing / quality databases.

About Dessert HoldingsDessert Holdings is North America's fastest-growing premium dessert company, bringing unparalleled dessert experiences to both retail and foodservice customers. The company, headquartered in St. Paul, Minnesota, is a collection of premium dessert companies and brands: Steven Charles, The Original Cakerie, Lawler's Desserts, Atlanta Cheesecake Company, Dianne's Fine Desserts, and Kenny's Great Pies. Dessert Holdings is owned by Bain Capital, employing more than 3,200 people across nine North American manufacturing facilities.EEO StatementDessert Holdings and its related entities provide equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, or any other characteristics protected by law.